Jammu, Apr 04: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, on Friday laid the foundation stone for two flood protection projects along River Tawi aimed at strengthening riverbanks and safeguarding vulnerable areas from future flood risks.
The projects include restoration of the earthen embankment on the left bank of River Tawi at Bikram Chowk upstream, sanctioned at a cost of Rs 3.05 crore and scheduled for completion within six to nine months. Construction of damaged flood protection works on the right bank near Hari Singh Park has been taken up at a cost of Rs 82 lakh and is expected to be completed within two years.
MLA Jammu East Yudhvir Sethi, Chief Engineer I&FC Manoj Gupta, officers from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Jal Shakti (PHE) Department, and other concerned agencies, besides local representatives and residents, were present on the occasion.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rana said the projects will enhance flood resilience and protect critical infrastructure and residential areas from future risks.
Describing River Tawi as the pride of Jammu, he reiterated the commitment of the Omar Abdullah-led government to undertake necessary measures for its protection and beautification. “The river protection initiative underscores our commitment to flood mitigation and safeguarding lives and livelihoods in the region. No effort will be spared to ensure the safety and well-being of every resident,” he said.
The embankment restoration and bank protection works are designed to address longstanding vulnerabilities in the river’s flood management infrastructure. The works include construction of crate revetments, strengthening of existing structures with concrete panels, and backfilling to stabilise eroded sections.
The Minister said such projects are part of a broader strategy to modernise flood control and water resource infrastructure across the Union Territory, complementing ongoing efforts under central and UT-level schemes.
He added that damages caused by recent floods will be taken up on priority, with restoration and protection works planned to ensure timely relief and long-term resilience in affected areas.
