JAMMU, September 18, 2026 – Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Thursday laid the foundation stones for the major restoration of 93 water supply schemes and crucial riverbank protection works, representing a combined investment of ₹14.69 crore. The ceremonies, held to address critical infrastructure needs across the Jammu East and Nagrota constituencies, mark a significant step towards rebuilding essential services and strengthening disaster resilience following recent natural calamities. The foundation stone-laying event was prominently attended by Nagrota MLA Devyani Rana, Jammu East MLA Yudhvir Sethi, senior officers of the Jal Shakti Department, and a large gathering of local residents and community representatives.
The primary component of the initiative involves the restoration of 93 water supply schemes that suffered extensive damage during the devastating August-September floods of 2025. This critical infrastructure revival is being executed under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Disaster Mitigation scheme at an estimated cost of ₹11.29 crore. The comprehensive project aims not only to repair the damaged assets but also to significantly enhance the resilience of the water supply networks against future flood-related disruptions, thereby ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted drinking water supply for the affected populations. While inaugurating the works, Minister Rana emphasized that providing safe and dependable drinking water to every household remains a top priority, stating that the restoration of flood-damaged infrastructure is being pursued on a mission mode to minimize any further hardship for the residents.
In addition to the water supply schemes, the Minister also laid the foundation stone for a ₹3.40 crore riverbank protection project on the River Tawi, situated near Government Degree College in Sidhra, which is also funded under the SASCI scheme. This strategic intervention is specifically designed to fortify the riverbank and shield adjoining residential and institutional areas from severe soil erosion and potential flood damage. Highlighting the government’s proactive approach, Rana stated that flood protection is about preparing infrastructure and communities before disaster strikes, with a strong focus on strengthening vulnerable areas and building systems capable of withstanding future floods. He issued strict directives to the executing agencies to maintain uncompromising quality standards, ensure the timely mobilization of resources, and complete the works strictly within the stipulated timeframe. He further underscored the administration’s broader commitment to developing climate-resilient public infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir.
Published by True Roots Media Network