SBM(G): DG Rural Sanitation Reviews Poonch & Rajouri Progress, Calls for DEWATS at Key Locations

Rajouri/Poonch: The Director General Rural Sanitation, Jammu & Kashmir, conducted a two-day visit to Poonch and Rajouri districts on Wednesday and Thursday to assess the progress of sanitation initiatives under the Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBM-G). The inspection covered several blocks, including Satara and Nangali Sahib Sian Baba (NSSB), where a Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System (DEWATS) has been proposed.

During the visit, the DG highlighted the urgent need to strengthen liquid waste management infrastructure in both districts. She directed all Block Development Officers (BDOs) to ensure that every shrine given their high public footfall and cultural significance is equipped with a functional DEWATS unit.

Explaining the system’s benefits, the DG noted that DEWATS is a low-cost, low-maintenance and eco-friendly solution that treats wastewater near its source, whether at households, institutions, communities or village clusters. She instructed all BDOs to carry out detailed assessments and submit feasibility reports to the Directorate at the earliest for timely planning and implementation.

Earlier, the DG chaired a block wise review meeting in Poonch, attended by the Assistant Commissioner Panchayats (ACP), Executive Engineer, all BDOs, and the Rural Engineering Wing (REW) team of AEs and JEs. The meeting reviewed the status of SBM-G assets, ongoing sanitation works and strategies to fast-track both solid and liquid waste management efforts.

Reiterating the department’s commitment, the DG said the focus remains on achieving universal sanitation coverage, improving community hygiene and establishing sustainable waste management systems across Poonch and Rajouri. She assured that the Directorate will continue to monitor progress closely and provide technical and administrative support to meet the mission’s goals.