Dr Jitendra Singh announces seismological observatory in Kishtwar, Doppler radar for Doda

With a focus on strengthening disaster preparedness, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Tuesday announced the establishment of a permanent seismological observatory in Kishtwar and a Doppler Weather Radar in Doda.

The Minister was reviewing the key development proposals during the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meetings in Kishtwar and Doda districts.

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He announced that the new permanent seismological observatory in Kishtwar would augment the national seismological network, enhance earthquake monitoring and strengthen disaster preparedness in the region.

Dr Jitendra Singh also announced that site selection for the installation of Automated Weather Stations in the remote areas of Paddar and Machail has been completed to improve weather forecasting and support disaster management efforts. He added that the installation process would begin soon.

He stated that the Doppler Weather Radar in Doda will enable accurate and real-time monitoring of weather conditions. This will improve early warning systems and support disaster management efforts in the district, he added.

During the meeting in Kishtwar, the issue of developing an airstrip under the UDAN scheme was also discussed, particularly with regard to the acquisition of additional land. The minister directed Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Sharma to take up proposals for additional land acquisition with the concerned authorities to ensure early progress.

The minister also reviewed the proposal for the development of a Saffron Park in Kishtwar, which has been pending for the past 12 years. He directed the concerned authorities to arrive at a consensus on the suitability of the identified land parcel so that the project can be expedited.

Highlighting the importance of promoting local produce, the minister emphasised the promotion of cumin (kala zeera) under the One District One Product initiative. He suggested that cumin from the district could be developed as a signature product and presented as a souvenir to visiting dignitaries.

Dr Jitendra Singh also reviewed the status of infrastructure related to the medicinal and aromatic plants sector. During the meeting, Dr Wahid, Technical Officer, J&K Medicinal Plants Board, apprised that the Post Harvest Management Unit for Medicinal Plants at Kotli, comprising a marketing mandi, storage godowns, and drying sheds, is yet to be fully operational due to a shortage of manpower.

The minister called for efficient utilisation of resources and the removal of bottlenecks. He stressed the importance of effective inter-departmental coordination with local public representatives to ensure last-mile delivery of services. He also reviewed the status of key road projects, including the Thathri–Doda road and Paryote road under National Highways.

The progress of the Chattergal Tunnel project was also assessed, with instructions to expedite the work and submit the Detailed Project Report at the earliest.