Asif Iqbal Naik
Srinagar, Oct 29: Residents of Kishtwar Town are set to benefit from a significant infrastructure upgrade as the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies, Jammu, has approved a revised action plan under the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal (NGT) for Central Drainage on Monday 27-10-2025. The ambitious project, with an estimated cost of Rs. 421.00 Lakh (Rs. 4.21 Crore), aims to prepare a detailed estimate for the Central Drainage scheme in Kishtwar Town, ensuring the work can be undertaken for execution during the current financial year.
The directive, issued by the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies, Jammu, vide Order No.:-136-JK(HUD) of 2025, dated 05-09-2025, highlights the government’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure and addressing environmental concerns. The original NGT Action Plan under O.A.No.606/2018 had initially approved Rs. 2664.00 Lakh for various components, with the current focus specifically on the Central Drainage for Kishtwar Town.
This significant infrastructure boost for Kishtwar Town is largely being attributed to the strenuous and consistent efforts of the local representative, MLA Shagun Parihar. She is understood to have vigorously pursued the sanction and necessary revision of the action plan with the concerned authorities at the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies and the Housing & Urban Development Department, emphasizing the urgent need for a robust and modern drainage system to tackle long-standing civic issues.
In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar, the Directorate has requested the immediate preparation of a detailed estimate by the Engineering Division of Kishtwar Town. This crucial step will pave the way for the commencement of the project, which is expected to significantly improve the town’s drainage system and mitigate issues related to waterlogging and sanitation.
Sources indicate that funds for the execution of this vital project are readily available, underscoring the government’s preparedness to see the plan through. Copies of the directive have been forwarded to the Director General Planning, Housing & Urban Development Department for information, and to the Chief Executive Officer, Municipal Council, Kishtwar, for necessary action and follow-up.
This development is anticipated to bring a much-needed facelift to Kishtwar’s urban environment, ensuring better public health and improved living conditions for its residents. The speedy implementation of the project will be closely monitored to ensure timely completion and optimal utilization of funds.
