J&K CM Launches ₹140 Crore Water and Sewerage Projects'

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently laid the foundation stone for drinking water and sewerage projects worth more than ₹140 crore in Udhampur and Reasi, besides inaugurating the upgraded Residency Road-High Street corridor in Jammu.

Abdullah laid the foundation stone for the ₹124.19-crore augmentation of the water supply scheme for Udhampur town under AMRUT 2.0. He also virtually launched a ₹16.33-crore used water management project, including a 3 MLD sewage treatment plant, in Reasi under SBM 2.0, officials said.

Addressing a gathering, the chief minister said the projects would strengthen urban infrastructure, ensure safe and sustainable drinking water supplies and improve sanitation facilities.

He urged people to conserve water, promote rainwater harvesting under the 'Catch the Rain' campaign and construct check dams to improve groundwater recharge. Reaffirming his government's commitment to inclusive development, Abdullah said genuine public demands would be addressed on priority.

Earlier, the chief minister inaugurated the upgraded 1.2-km Residency Road-High Street corridor in Jammu. The ₹9.18-crore project was executed by Jammu Smart City Limited under the Smart City Mission.

The project includes underground utility corridors, upgraded footpaths, improved road surfaces and drainage infrastructure. It is aimed at improving traffic flow, pedestrian convenience and the overall urban landscape.

Later, Abdullah travelled by road from Jammu to Srinagar along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway to review restoration works following landslides and mudslides triggered by heavy rainfall.

Describing the highway as the lifeline of Jammu and Kashmir, the chief minister directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and executing agencies to expedite restoration work and ensure safe and uninterrupted traffic movement.

He also stressed the need to facilitate the movement of trucks carrying fruit and other agricultural produce to minimise losses to growers and traders.

Abdullah called for close coordination among the NHAI, Traffic Police and district administrations. He directed officials to monitor vulnerable stretches, deploy adequate manpower and machinery and complete the remaining restoration works at the earliest while adhering to safety standards.