PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Haldwani
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami directed officials to ascertain an effective solution to the human-wildlife conflict while also fixing the responsibility of officials concerned. Chairing a high-level review meeting with senior officials from the Nainital district’s administrative, police, forest and development departments at the Circuit House in Haldwani on Saturday, the CM discussed human-wildlife conflict, preparations for the upcoming tourist season, law and order, drinking water, electricity, irrigation and the progress of the Jamrani Dam project, while also issuing instructions to the officials.
Expressing serious concern over the increasing incidents of human-wildlife conflict, Dhami stated that it is essential to find a permanent solution to prevent such incidents. He directed that in addition to raising public awareness, systems should also be developed to reduce the need for people to venture into the forests. He also directed that accountability be established at every level of the department and effective solutions be ensured using modern technology. The CM further directed that solar fencing be installed in sensitive areas and a joint quick response team of the Forest department and police be kept active 24 x 7.
Stating that Nainital district is a major tourist destination in the State where the safety of tourists and citizens living in villages adjacent to forest areas is the government’s top priority, he directed special surveillance in sensitive areas including Ramnagar, Haldwani, Kaladhungi and Nainital.
In view of the upcoming tourist season, Dhami directed all departments concerned to ensure timely preparations while emphasising on keeping the roads pothole-free, strengthening traffic management and activating shuttle services and alternative parking locations.
During a review of law and order, he directed strict action against hooliganism, substance abuse and overcharging at tourist destinations under Operation Prahar. Reviewing the progress of the proposal to grant revenue village status to Bindukhatta, Dhami directed the Kumaon commissioner and the Nainital district magistrate to take necessary action and send the proposal to the government soon.
During the review of the power system, the CM directed that all power stations be equipped with the necessary equipment and systems, keeping in mind the summer and monsoon seasons. He also directed that appropriate arrangements be made in a timely manner to address the drinking water crisis. He also reviewed the progress of work being carried out by the Irrigation Department and other agencies and directed that all tasks be completed on time. Dhami also sought information from the public representatives about various problems of the district and directed the officials to resolve them.
Cabinet minister Ram Singh Kaida, BJP district president Pratap Bisht, district Panchayat chief Deepa Darmwal, MLA Mohan Singh Bisht and officials concerned were present in the meeting.
