MLASPEAK: Regularization of unauthorized colonies a top priority: Jammu West MLA

Jammu West MLA Arvind Gupta has pledged to prioritise the regularization of unauthorized colonies in his constituency, which he says is crucial for enabling residents to access government schemes and improve their living conditions.
Gupta emphasised that addressing this issue, along with ensuring regular water supply and upgrading the drainage system, will be at the top of his agenda.
Gupta highlighted that residents of areas such as Gole Gujral, Mazdoor Basti, Christian Colony, and Gorkha Colony have long been deprived of benefits from various government schemes due to the lack of regularization.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Gupta stated, “My first and foremost priority is to ensure that these colonies are regularized. I will move a motion in the Assembly and engage with the concerned authorities to address this issue.” He noted that residents in these colonies currently face restrictions on repairs and renovations due to their unauthorized status.
Gupta also pointed out that many residents of these areas, including Valmikis, Gorkhas, and West Pak Refugees (WPR), were first-time voters in the recent Assembly elections, following the abrogation of Article 370.
Apart from the regularization issue, Gupta underscored the persistent problems of water scarcity and poor drainage systems in the constituency. “Jammu West faces a shortage of 30 lakh gallons of water during the peak summer season,” he said. Gupta shared that he has devised a blueprint to tackle the water shortage and plans to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure a consistent water supply for the coming summer.
Addressing drainage concerns, the MLA stressed the need for proper systems to prevent recurrent issues. “Resolving water supply and drainage problems will be among my top priorities, ensuring better living conditions for residents of Jammu West,” Gupta added.
The Jammu West Assembly Constituency was the largest in terms of voter strength in the Jammu region before the recent delimitation, and Gupta’s plans aim to address the longstanding issues faced by its residents.