Kangra speeds up forest clearance process

The Kangra district administration has stepped up efforts to expedite clearances under the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) for ongoing and proposed development projects.

Chairing a meeting of the district-level coordination committee in Dharamsala, Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa directed officials to ensure immediate disposal of pending forest clearance cases. The committee was formed on the instructions of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to improve inter-departmental coordination for faster project execution.

Bairwa noted that delays often stem from incomplete or procedurally incorrect FCA applications. “Our focus is on ensuring all departments follow the correct process for preparing forest clearance cases. The administration will also help identify forest and non-forest land to avoid procedural bottlenecks,” he said.

A department-wise review was conducted to assess pending cases, objections raised and measures for resolution. The DC also advised departments on addressing objections promptly to speed up approvals.

DC directs timely, quality completion of rural development targets

DC Bairwa has directed Rural Development Department officials to meet all targets on time while ensuring quality in execution.

Chairing a review meeting, Bairwa said Block Development Officers (BDOs) play a crucial role in the effective implementation of government schemes. He instructed them to conduct regular inspections of ongoing projects, hold review meetings to speed up progress and ensure proper utilisation of funds for panchayat-level works.

The meeting reviewed progress under MNREGA, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Chief Minister Awas Yojana, National Rural Livelihood Mission, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Rural), Amrit Sarovar, Watershed Scheme, Solid and Liquid Waste Management, Natural Resource Management and Plastic Waste Management. The DC stressed maximising MNREGA benefits at the panchayat level, setting up village-level solid waste management units and constructing panchayat ghars in phases.

Highlighting the lack of dedicated study spaces in rural homes, he suggested establishing libraries and study centres for village youth. He also directed officials to upload data of all families on the e-family portal for faster access to welfare schemes and to ensure prompt disposal of public grievances.