Jammu, Oct 13, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the comprehensive street development project for Apsara Road High Street Gole Market Area and its adjoining roads in Jammu. This initiative is a significant undertaking by the Jammu Smart City Limited.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor dedicated the 13.5-kilometer upgraded and modernization of the road network in Gandhi Nagar, as well as the transformation of a 600-meter section of Apsara Road into a vibrant High Street to the people and business community.
“Our prime objective is to transform Jammu City into a centre of opportunities for all sections and develop it as an engine of growth and also incubator for young entrepreneurs of J&K UT. We are ensuring that basic utilities are upgraded to meet the demand, and it is inclusive and sustainable to handle growing urbanization,” the Lt Governor said.
The renovation of the iconic Apsara Road is expected to turn the market area into a major attraction for both locals and tourists, thereby boosting business and economic activities. The Lieutenant Governor reiterated the UT Administration’s commitment to bringing about transformative change in the urban environment.
To enhance the quality of life, smart mobility, and the overall aesthetic appeal of Jammu City, a strong emphasis has been placed on building new and resilient infrastructure. The upgrading of existing physical infrastructure is viewed as a foundation for future progress and a preparation for upcoming challenges.
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted various ongoing projects, such as the Tawi River Front, Heritage Conservation, street development from Mubarak Mandi to Raghunath Bazaar, water body rejuvenation, approach road beautification to Bahu Fort, waste management, the Blue Green Project of Ranbir Canal, and the expansion of the electric bus fleet. These initiatives are intended to improve the living conditions and sustainability of the city.
Furthermore, plans for smart equipment deployment for solid waste management, traffic management, and smart city policing were announced to ensure the efficient operation of the city.
The Lieutenant Governor urged citizens and stakeholders to actively participate in the development process, fulfill their responsibilities with dedication, and pay for government services. He also made a significant announcement, stating that the electricity bills of impoverished citizens would be waived. He emphasized a commitment to prioritizing the 1.30 crore residents of Jammu and Kashmir over any discriminatory system.
Later, he assured the public that the government would make decisions in favor of the common man, traders, and the business community, with open doors for suggestions on advancing society.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Rajinder Sharma, Mayor of Jammu Municipal Corporation; Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament; Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary; Sh Anand Jain, IGP Jammu; Sh Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Sh Rahul Yadav, CEO of Jammu Smart City; as well as members of the ULB, senior officials, and representatives from the trade and business community.
