LG Sinha Attends Tawi Aarti, Baisakhi Mela; Vows to Make Jammu Smart, Safe, Green & Future-Ready
Jammu, April 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today participated in the grand ‘Tawi Aarti’ and ‘Baisakhi Mela’ held at the Tawi Riverfront in Jammu, where he sought blessings from the sacred Suryaputri Tawi River and prayed for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of all citizens.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor extended greetings on the occasion of Baisakhi and congratulated the Jammu Municipal Corporation, Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL), Shri Raghunathji Corridor Vikas Council, Tourism Department, Acharyas, Archakas, young volunteers, and all stakeholders for successfully organizing the spiritually enriching event.
Describing the Tawi Aarti as a “divine spectacle,” LG Sinha said it reflects the city’s rich spiritual heritage and cultural continuity. “Tawi river is deeply connected to the soul of Jammu. It represents a living form of our consciousness and cultural identity. With the commencement of Aarti at the riverfront, we are awakening our ancient traditions and spiritual values,” he said.
He emphasized the need for collective efforts to preserve the sanctity of the river and promote eco-friendly practices. “We must work together to reduce pollution and restore the sacredness of the Tawi. A beautiful city begins with citizens taking pride in their hometown,” he added.
Highlighting the transformational projects under the Jammu Smart City initiative, the LG praised the progress made across various sectors. “Whether it’s the Heritage Trail project near Raghunath Bazaar, the upgraded Residency Road, or the Complete Street Development in Gandhi Nagar—each initiative has enhanced the city’s accessibility, vibrancy, and public convenience.”
He also underlined JSCL’s focus on sustainability, noting the development of over five hectares of green spaces at key locations including Panama Chowk, Balidan Stambh, and along Ranbir Canal. “Public art installations, including 3D murals and sculptures, are adding a unique character to Jammu,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor spoke about the boost in public transport, with 100 electric air-conditioned buses now operating across Jammu province. “These e-buses, equipped with live tracking, CCTV cameras, and digital payment systems, are making commuting safer, greener, and more efficient,” he said.
He further highlighted the impact of the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) and Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS), which are enhancing daily civic management and public safety.
“A smart city is not only about technology but about improving lives and building a community-driven future. The efforts of JSCL engineers, planners, ground workers, and the citizens have been instrumental in this transformation,” he remarked.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, the LG said: “Our vision is to make Jammu not just smart, but also safe, green, inclusive, and future-ready. Let’s work together to build a legacy for generations to come.”
The event was attended by Members of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma and Gulam Ali Khatana; Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma; Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar; Municipal Commissioner Jammu and CEO JSCL Devansh Yadav; Chairman Shri Raghunathji Corridor Vikas Council Rajesh Gupta; and senior officials from civil and police administration. Acharyas, Archakas, civil society members, and citizens from all walks of life also participated in the grand Aarti.