Azad kicks off double shift work system

Srinagar, May 9: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has kicked off the double-shift system in the Valley to complete all development related works on time.

''During summer in Kashmir valley, all executive agencies need to gear up their men and machinery and work in double shifts on identified schemes. This will ensure that works are not limited to laying of foundation stones only, but completed within shortest possible time period,'' Mr Azad said at a high-level meeting here.

The Chief Minister gave approval to about 400 schemes proposed by various departments for work on double shifts.

Mr Azad said at the first instance Rs 350 crore will be spent within six months on these schemes and their completion will be ensured before winter.

The Ministers concerned, the commissioners and the special designated officers will monitor the work on double shifts so that there was no laxity on the part of executive agencies, he added.

He said delay tactics, procedural wrangles and weather problems would not be allowed to hamper implementation and completion of these schemes.

The purpose of the double shift system was to utilise maximum time during summers for execution of works so that the schemes were completed before winter in Kashmir, Mr Azad added.

The Chief Minister has fixed October 31 as the deadline for completion of majority of these schemes.

He asked the Chief Secretary, Principal Secretaries, Financial Advisors and the Jammu and Kashmir Bank Chairman that flow of funds should be ensured so that implementing agencies do not feel any inconvenience in this regard.

Mr Azad said all those officials who ensure completion of the works within the target period would be rewarded.

However, he warned that the non-performing officials will have to face the consequences.

The Chief Minister expressed the hope that hundred per cent funds will be utilised on ground.

''Nobody would dare to make any pilferage in these funds which belong to the people and are meant exclusively for their welfare,'' he said.

UNI