SRINAGAR, September 1: The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is set to undergo significant urban transformation with the approval of three major development projects, collectively valued at approximately Rs 2,700 crore. These initiatives, spearheaded by the Housing and Urban Development Department, aim to revitalize key urban areas in Jammu, Srinagar, and Reasi.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Union Territory Level High Powered Steering Committee (UTHPSC), chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, gave its nod to these ambitious projects under the Government of India’s Urban Challenge Fund (UCF). The projects include the “Tawi Area Regeneration and Green Growth” (TARANG) in Jammu, the “Walled City and Nigeen Lakefront Revitalisation” in Srinagar, and the “Katra Revitalisation Through Integrated Pilgrimage Amenities” (KRIPA) in Reasi.
Regenerating Tawi Riverfront in Jammu
The TARANG project in Jammu, with an estimated cost of Rs 1,567.91 crore, focuses on the comprehensive regeneration of the Tawi riverfront and surrounding urban vicinities. This initiative is designed to blend public infrastructure development with private participation and market-linked financing. The funding structure includes Rs 307.05 crore each from the Centre and the Union Territory government, with an additional Rs 953.81 crore to be raised through market and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models. The PPP component will facilitate the development of high-end residential housing, an upscale hotel, a modern retail mall, and associated road infrastructure. Substantial work will also be undertaken for structural and river protection, including embankment filling and the construction of retaining walls.
Revitalizing Srinagar’s Historic Core and Lakefront
The Walled City and Nigeen Lakefront Revitalisation project in Srinagar carries an estimated cost of Rs 1,010 crore. This project aims to rejuvenate the historic urban core of the city and unlock the economic potential of its lakefront areas. Approximately Rs 300 crore will be allocated for core public infrastructure and the revitalization of the historic city. The PPP component will support the development of a Hospitality Centre, the Pokribal Lakefront, and a premium five-star boutique hotel, thereby enhancing tourism and economic activity in the region.
Enhancing Pilgrimage Amenities in Katra
In Reasi district, the KRIPA project in Katra, estimated at Rs 113.90 crore, is geared towards improving facilities for pilgrims, managing mobility, and bolstering institutional infrastructure. A significant aspect of this project is the Katra Gateway Centre, a mixed-use facility planned to accommodate pilgrim dormitories, guest rooms, retail outlets, a community dining hall, and prayer spaces. To alleviate parking and traffic congestion, the project also includes a multi-level car parking facility, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and dedicated bus bays. Furthermore, Rs 15.25 crore is earmarked for institutional remodelling, which will provide modern commercial office spaces and upgraded administrative facilities for the Municipal Committee, Katra.
The approval of these three projects signifies a substantial stride towards fostering sustainable and investment-driven urban development in Jammu and Kashmir. By leveraging the UCF framework, the administration seeks to attract additional institutional, municipal, and private capital for large-scale infrastructure development, ultimately aiming to create modern, sustainable, and economically vibrant urban spaces across the Union Territory.
The Chenab Times News Desk