NGT gives J&K govt four-week deadline for landslide rehabilitation plans

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has given the Jammu & Kashmir government a four-week deadline to submit a report detailing its short-term and long-term action plans. The authorities expect the report to outline the steps being taken for the rehabilitation of families displaced due to landslides in the state's Doda district.

NGT sets 4-week deadline for plans

During a recent court appearance on September 20, 2023, the Special Secretary (Technical) of the Forest, Ecology, and Environment Department, representing the Jammu & Kashmir government, assured the NGT that they would prepare the action plans within two weeks. They also pledged to expedite the necessary steps for the rehabilitation of affected families.

The anticipated report will include a record of the actions taken up to this point and the planned schedule for completing the rehabilitation efforts.

This matter pertains to the destruction of 21 structures in the Doda district of the Chenab Valley due to landslides, resulting in the displacement of local residents.

The NGT's directive comes after a joint committee had previously submitted a report on May 24, 2023, following the NGT's directions issued on May 25, 2023. The tribunal had allowed authorities to consult with local stakeholders, including the affected population, for further action based on the report.

Landslides damaged Doda structures, displacing residents

The issue at hand pertains to the damage caused to 21 structures in the Doda district of the Chenab valley due to landslides, resulting in the displacement of inhabitants.

Considering the ongoing consultations, the NGT granted a three-month extension to authorities to finalize the matter, prepare an action plan based on the recommendations in the report, and submit it to the tribunal. The action plan should encompass both short and long-term executable measures, with the option of seeking technical assistance from relevant institutions.

Dr. Harpreet Kaur, the Special Secretary (Technical) of the Forest, Ecology & Environment Department, representing the State of Jammu & Kashmir, gave an assurance to the NGT that they would complete the action plans within two weeks with a commitment to swiftly address the rehabilitation of displaced families. The report will also detail actions taken in line with previous directions and the anticipated timeline for rehabilitation efforts.

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