Divisional Commissioner, Sanjeev Verma today chaired a meeting to review the progress on the proposed expansion and extension of Jammu Airport.The project includes extension of the existing runway from 6700 feet to 8000 feet.In the meeting, Div Com was apprised about the various ongoing and future stages of the project. He also suggested shifting of the Animal Husbandry farm from BeliCharana to a suitable place so that both the parties-the department and the airport are benefitted by the move.A detailed discussion was held on the exchange of army land with the airport authorities. Other issues which cropped up during the meeting were cutting of trees, shifting of utilities like irrigation canals, 132 KV power transmission lines and army buildings.Meanwhile, the Div Com launched a plantation drive of the Horticulture Department here at Channi Chowadi. He also flagged off one-day exposure visit for a group of farmers.
Farmers from Satwari, RS Pura, Dansal, Bhalwal and other areas of Jammu participated in the plantation drive in which mango saplings were planted over a 40 kanal area.Chief Horticulture Officer, Kirtan Singh Raina was also present.The Div Com urged the Horticulture and the Floriculture departments to develop green zones in the semi-urban areas of Jammu. He highlighted the importance of encouraging cultivation of fruit trees as it would benefit both the farmers as well as the environment.Sanjeev Verma called for spreading awareness about plantation in rural, semi-rural as well as urban areas and the need to fully utilise the vacant land. He also suggested the use of carts and kiosks by farmers to sell their produce locally.