JAMMU: More than 200 building blocks, nearly 5,000 flats, community halls and other infrastructure across migrant camps in Jammu are set to undergo major repair and renovation works, with the Jammu and Kashmir Government approving Rs 82.45 crore for the projects.
The information was shared during a review meeting chaired by Relief and Rehabilitation (Migrants) Commissioner Arvind Karwani to assess infrastructure and essential services at Jagti Township, Muthi, Purkhoo and Mishriwala migrant camps.
Officials of the Public Works Department (Roads and Buildings) informed the meeting that the tendering process for repair and renovation works was in its final stages and execution would begin soon.
The meeting also reviewed ongoing development works and proposed maintenance projects for the current financial year, besides assessing the extension of social sector schemes to eligible migrant beneficiaries.
A separate project is being formulated by PWD (R&B) for improvement of internal roads and lanes, development of parks and other infrastructure, besides the facelift of migrant schools, health dispensaries and the Jagti Sub-District Hospital.
Reviewing drinking water and power supply in the camps, Karwani directed Jal Shakti Department officials to take all necessary measures to ensure uninterrupted water supply and deploy adequate water tankers wherever required to address shortages.
Officials informed that both short-term and long-term measures were being undertaken to improve water supply in the migrant settlements.
Karwani also stressed frequent quality testing to ensure hygienic and safe drinking water for residents.
The meeting was further informed that sewage treatment plant projects worth Rs 11.5 crore have been finalised for the migrant camps at Nagrota, Muthi-Buta Nagar and Purkhoo, with work expected to begin shortly.
On welfare measures, officials said nearly 2,600 families have availed benefits under various social sector schemes following the digitisation and integration of migrant ration cards with the national database.
It was decided that special camps would be organised at different locations in Jammu from the second week of September to spread awareness about welfare schemes, self-employment initiatives and the procedure for filing applications.
Officials were also directed to carry out a door-to-door campaign to identify potentially eligible beneficiaries and assist them with documentation and online applications for various welfare schemes.
