Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has taken a strict stand against illegal encroachments on rivers, ponds, and dams across the state. During a high-level review meeting held at the Jharkhand Secretariat, the Chief Minister directed officials to immediately demolish all unauthorized constructions on water bodies and register FIRs against those responsible.
The meeting reviewed the performance of the Urban Development and Housing Department and discussed priorities for the financial year 2025–26.
Illegal Constructions on Water Bodies to Be Demolished
The Chief Minister made it clear that encroachments on natural water resources will not be tolerated. He ordered a statewide survey of urban bodies to identify illegal structures built on rivers, ponds, and dams.
Officials have been instructed to issue notices, take strict legal action, and carry out demolition drives on a war footing.
He also appealed to the public not to construct buildings near water bodies.
Strict Action and FIRs Against Encroachers
The government has decided to initiate FIRs against individuals involved in illegal occupation of water resources. CM Soren emphasized that such encroachments pose a serious threat to the environment and urban drainage systems.
Action Plan for Kanke Dam Protection in Ranchi
Special focus was given to the conservation of Kanke Dam. The Chief Minister directed officials to immediately stop sewage inflow into the dam and prepare a detailed action plan to protect it.
He also ordered demarcation and fencing of the catchment area to ensure clean and sustainable water storage.
Solar Energy Push on Ring Roads
To modernize urban infrastructure, the Chief Minister instructed the installation of solar panels along ring roads in Ranchi and other cities. A proposal for the initiative will be presented to the cabinet within 15 days.
Along with solar energy, water supply and sewer pipelines will also be laid along ring road corridors.
Mandatory Waste Management and Rainwater Harvesting
CM Soren directed that all residential buildings, apartments, and hotels must implement solid waste management systems and rainwater harvesting mechanisms.
He also stressed the need for modern technology to clear legacy waste sites, including major garbage dumps in Ranchi.
Digital Monitoring of Development Projects
To improve transparency and efficiency, the Chief Minister emphasized strengthening digital monitoring systems. He also reviewed sewage treatment plants in Rajmahal, Sahibganj, and Dhanbad through an online platform during the meeting.
Additionally, he instructed officials to trim roadside trees before the monsoon season to prevent accidents.
Officials Present in the Meeting
The high-level meeting was attended by Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Development Commissioner Ajay Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary Sunil Kumar, Ranchi Municipal Commissioner, SUDA Director Suraj Kumar, and several senior officials from urban development and smart city projects.
About Jharkhand Urban Development Initiatives
The Urban Development and Housing Department in Jharkhand is actively working on improving city infrastructure, water conservation, sanitation, and smart city projects. The state government is focusing on sustainable urban planning, environmental protection, and modernization of civic amenities to ensure long-term development.
