Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today laid the foundation stone for two important flood protection projects along River Tawi aimed at strengthening the riverbanks and safeguarding vulnerable areas from future flood risks.
The projects included restoration of the earthen embankment on the left bank of River Tawi at Bikram Chowk upstream, allotted at a cost of Rs. 3.05 crore and scheduled for completion within six to nine months. The construction of damaged flood protection works on the right bank near Hari Singh Park has been allotted 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 & 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, Javed Rana said that these projects will significantly enhance the 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 government to undertake all necessary measures for its protection and beautification. “The major river protection initiative along River Tawi underscores our unwavering commitment to flood mitigation and the protection of lives and livelihoods in the region. No effort will be spared to ensure the safety and well-being of every resident,” he maintained.
The embankment restoration and bank protection works are designed to address the longstanding vulnerabilities in the river’s flood management infrastructure. The proposed works included construction of crate revetments, strengthening of existing structures with concrete panels and necessary backfilling to stabilise the eroded sections.
The Minister emphasised that such projects form part of a broader strategy to modernise the flood control and water resource infrastructure across the Union Territory, complementing the ongoing efforts under Central and UT-level schemes.
He informed that all damages caused by the recent floods will be taken up on priority, with necessary restoration and protection works being planned to ensure timely relief and long-term resilience for the affected areas.