Free waterbodies from encroachments: CM

Ranchi: Chief minister Hemant Soren on Friday directed officials to launch a crackdown on illegal constructions along rivers, dams, ponds and other water bodies, warning of strict legal action against violators during a high-level review of the urban development and housing department.

Reviewing the department’s progress and current priorities, Hemant stressed time-bound execution of schemes to ensure benefits reach people without delay. He asked officials to identify, survey and remove all encroachments on water sources, issue notices to violators, file FIRs where needed, and demolish illegal structures on a war footing.Notably, the high court too has in recent times rapped civic bodies over encroachment on water bodies post which Ranchi Municipal Corporation had undertaken a few crackdowns along a few water bodies including Kanke dam.

The situation of encroachment, however, is far from over, said sources.Calling such encroachments a “serious threat” to environment and drainage systems, the CM also appealed to citizens not to construct houses or structures on water bodies.Hemant also directed officials to accelerate key urban projects, including smart city works, sewerage treatment plants, drinking water supply, traffic management and waste disposal systems.

“Land acquisition for Ranchi Smart City project should be expedited by sorting out existing hurdles,” he said.In a push for sustainable urban planning, the CM also ordered installation of solar panels and street lights along ring roads across the state, with a proposal to be placed before the cabinet within 15 days.The CM further stressed 100% provision of piped drinking water in urban households and directed preparation of a comprehensive conservation plan for Ranchi’s Kanke Dam, including stopping inflow of drains and securing its catchment area.Ensuring no project faces undue delay, the CM called for stronger digital monitoring systems and better preparedness to tackle waterlogging ahead of monsoon.