Gadgets to be purchased from CAMPA funds in next fiscal
By: Ibni Maqbool
Srinagar: In a move aimed at strengthening forest protection infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, the authorities are mulling to install Close Circuit Televisions (CCTVs) at forest check posts in different places in the Union Territory.
Documents in possession of The Precious Kashmir reveal that J&K’s Forest department has proposed to purchase CCTVs for their installation at forest check posts in 2022-23.
“In order to strengthen forest protection infrastructure, installation of CCTVs in forest check posts and infrastructure for joint control rooms are proposed,” reads minutes of the 28th executive committee of Jammu & Kashmir Jammu and Kashmir Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) held on 18th of this month under the chairmanship of Dr. Mohit Gera, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF).
According to the documents, the procurement of equipment like CCTV, drones is part of the CAMPA’s Annual Plan of Operations (APO) for 2022-23, which will be submitted to the Government of India after Chief Secretary-led steering approves it.
“For modernization of the functioning of the Department, the proposals under APO 2022-23 include use of remote sensing and GIS tools for preparation of digital maps and procurement of equipment like CCTV, drones, camera traps and GPS,” the minutes of the meeting state.
It is worthwhile to mention that the executive committee has approved APO 2022-23, with a total outlay of Rs 297.65 crore and recommended for placing it before the steering committee for approval.
