Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Friday, 19 June issued a sharp warning to state officials over delays in public utility projects, making clear that administrative lapses affecting water supply, electricity, healthcare, and roads would invite strict action. The warning came as Sharma chaired the sixth 'Raj Unnati' review meeting at the Chief Minister's Office in Jaipur.

Key Directives Issued

Reviewing progress across eight projects in seven departments, Sharma directed all works to be completed within stipulated timeframes in 'mission mode'. He instructed the Chief Secretary to streamline project approvals, land acquisition, tendering, and the issuance of work orders to cut implementation timelines.

The Chief Minister expressed particular displeasure over delays in the construction of the CETP pumping station and pipeline project in Sanganer, directing officials to conduct site inspections and expedite completion. He also called for monthly reviews of major projects by the Chief Secretary.

Major Administrative Action

In one of the meeting's most significant outcomes, Sharma ordered the suspension of more than half a dozen officials, including the UIT Secretary, in connection with two separate irregularities: the issuance of two separate leases for the same plot in Sri Ganganagar, and the grant of commercial leases on land reserved for public amenities. The suspensions signal a shift from warning to consequence in the government's accountability drive.

Infrastructure and Urban Development Push

Sharma directed the Tourism Department and the Rajasthan State Road Development and Construction Corporation (RSRDC) to implement the approved development blueprint for the Khatu Shyam Ji temple area. The proposed development includes an interpretation centre, a Katha pavilion, an open-air theatre, a light and sound show, fairground facilities, a waiting hall, a cafeteria, a food court, parking, and a grand entrance.

The Chief Minister also directed the RSRDC to begin construction of the proposed 'Karmyogi Bhawan' in Jaipur's Lalkothi area at the earliest, a facility intended to provide modern office infrastructure for various directorates and commissions.

Monsoon Preparedness and Grievance Redressal

With the monsoon approaching, Sharma instructed District Collectors to complete drain-cleaning and road repair works and ensure preparedness against seasonal diseases. He also directed Collectors to organise service camps to resolve encroachment and revenue-related cases, following a video conference in which a resident of Hanumangarh thanked the Chief Minister for clearing a 40-year-old public right of way of encroachments.

Sharma directed officials to prepare district-wise complaint reports from the Sampark portal and ordered the formation of a committee to monitor medicine procurement and availability in government hospitals.

Irrigation and Tribal Welfare

The Chief Minister expressed concern over repeated cost escalations in the Andheri Medium Irrigation Project in Chhabra tehsil of Baran district, directing the Chief Secretary to examine the matter and officials to issue work orders immediately so that farmers can begin receiving irrigation benefits. The meeting also reviewed implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), with particular focus on welfare initiatives for the Sahariya tribal community.

The Raj Unnati meetings, now in their sixth edition, have emerged as the Sharma government's principal accountability mechanism — with Friday's session marking the first time suspensions were ordered directly from the review table.