Bhubaneswar: The state government Thursday directed officials to accord top priority to the timely completion of ongoing water resources projects, creation of irrigation potential, strengthening of water infrastructure and ensuring that the intended benefits of the projects reach the people.
A review meeting of senior officials of the Water Resources department, chaired by Principal Secretary Shubha Sharma, focused on expediting developmental works in the water resources sector, effective utilisation of budgetary allocations and time-bound implementation of projects.
Officials were directed to accelerate capital expenditure works and major irrigation, drainage, dam, barrage and canal projects, including those under execution, projects for which the tendering process has been completed and proposed works. They were also asked to ensure regular monitoring of expenditure, expedite the finalisation of tenders and issuance of work orders, and speed up the disposal of pending approvals and Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) proposals.
The meeting stressed the need for realistic estimation of expenditure and effective utilisation of budgetary provisions during the financial year. It was emphasised that departmental expenditure should not be confined merely to achieving financial targets, but should be outcome-oriented and translate into tangible benefits for the people. Officials were advised to work in close coordination to ensure the optimum and productive utilisation of available financial resources. A presentation on the PM Gati Shakti portal was also made during the meeting, highlighting its potential to improve coordination and monitoring of infrastructure-related activities.
Officials concerned were directed to take necessary steps to improve monitoring and management of departmental activities through effective utilisation of the PM Gati Shakti platform, enhance water cess collection and upgrade the BAMIS portal.
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