category Regional, chandigarh, , tags Regional, chandigarh, , DW BUREAU CHANDIGARH Punjab Water Resources Minister S. Chetan Singh Jauramajra, on Monday, assessed ongoing projects, future initiatives and water storage at the dams with officers of the Bhakhra Beas Management Board (BBMB). Chairing the meeting with the BBMB officials at his office at the Punjab Civil Secretariat, the Cabinet Minister reaffirmed the relentless efforts of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government in strengthening the canal irrigation system, ensuring consistent water access for the state farmers. Jauramajra was briefed about the infrastructure managed by the institution, water regulatory measures and the distribution of shares among partner states by the officials. The Cabinet Minister asked the officers that the proactive measures against potential floods should be taken well in advance, categorically directing BBMB officers to provide timely updates on water release from the dams, enabling government and farmers to take preventive measures effectively. Expressing his intent to conduct on-site assessments of the dams soon, S. Chetan Singh Jauramajra said that this time the state government has made canal water available to the farmers as per their demand, which has happened for the first time in the state. Around 38 increase has been recorded in the use of canal water compared to the previous year, informed the Minister, adding that canal water usage will be further increased this year. He further underscored the need to chalk out a plan to ensure optimum use of canal water to save the depleting ground water. The issues pertaining to other states water-related issues were also discussed in the meeting. Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Mr. Krishan Kumar, Secretary, Water Resources, Mr. Satish Kumar Singla, Secretary, BBMB, Mr. J.P. Singh, Chief Engineer (Canals), Mr. Charanpreet Singh, Chief Engineer Bhakra Dam (BBMB), Mr. Rajeev Goel, Director Water Regulations and other officials. (editor dailyworld.in)