Projects in Srinagar, Baramulla, Rajouri to reduce open dumping, pollution, public health risks; generate employment
Srinagar, May 17: The Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led Council of Ministers has approved major projects aimed at strengthening solid waste and used-water management systems in Srinagar, Baramulla, and Rajouri at a combined cost of nearly Rs 433 crore. These projects are expected to significantly improve sanitation, protect public health, and promote sustainable urban development, a government spokesperson said.
“These projects reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to citizen-centric and responsive governance. We are determined to address the critical infrastructure gaps in our urban centres,” a government spokesperson said.
The largest of these projects is the establishment of an 800 Tonnes Per Day (TPD) Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) Project in Srinagar at the Saidpura Achan dump yard, to be implemented through Public-Private Partnership mode at an estimated cost of Rs 361 crore.
Srinagar Solid Waste Management
The project has been conceived to address the growing challenge of municipal solid waste in Srinagar, where estimates indicate around 600 tonnes of waste are generated daily, comprising nearly 60 per cent wet waste and 40 per cent dry waste. While the Srinagar Municipal Corporation has systems for source segregation, door-to-door collection, and transportation, there is a need to improve scientific processing and disposal.
“The Srinagar solid waste project will help reduce open dumping, foul smells, pest infestation, and other environmental and health hazards that have plagued the Achan area for years,” the spokesperson added.
The plant capacity has been planned at 800 TPD, keeping in view the present and future requirements of the city.
Baramulla Used-Water Management
The Council of Ministers has also accorded Administrative Approval for the Used Water Management Project in Municipal Council Baramulla at an estimated cost of Rs 37.96 crore. The population of Baramulla continues to grow due to urbanisation, trade, and institutional development, putting increasing pressure on civic infrastructure, particularly sewerage and sanitation systems.
“This project is designed to address the critical sanitation challenges in Baramulla. Untreated wastewater has been a major concern for residents, and this initiative will bring substantial relief,” the spokesperson said.
Rajouri Used-Water Management
Similarly, Administrative Approval has been granted for the Used Water Management Project in Municipal Council Rajouri at an estimated cost of Rs 34.43 crore. The town has witnessed rapid urban growth driven by its educational base, trade activity, and administrative role, creating significant pressure on existing water supply, drainage, waste management, and sanitation infrastructure.
The Rajouri project, like the one in Baramulla, will include interception and diversion of wastewater, sewage pumping stations, a sewage treatment plant, and a septage treatment facility using advanced technology.
“These projects are a testament to the government’s holistic approach towards urban development across both divisions of Jammu and Kashmir. No region has been left behind,” the spokesperson emphasised.
These projects are expected to bring multiple long-term benefits: the Srinagar solid waste project will improve waste collection, segregation, treatment, and scientific disposal, reducing open dumping, pollution, and public health risks. The Baramulla and Rajouri used-water management projects will help prevent untreated wastewater from flowing into drains and rivers, reducing water pollution, safeguarding public health, and improving the quality of life.
“The government is committed to ensuring that our cities and towns become cleaner, healthier, and more liveable. These projects will also generate employment opportunities and promote resource recovery,” the spokesperson said.
For the government, these projects represent a fulfilment of the promise of citizen-centric and responsive governance. The initiatives are also expected to strengthen environmental protection and improve overall liveability.