Sham Lal lays foundation stone for conservation and rejuvenation work of Water Pond at Upper Barnai
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Sham Lal Sharma, MLA Jammu North, on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the conservation and rejuvenation work of the Water Pond at Upper Barnai, Ward No. 65, a project aimed at strengthening water conservation, promoting ecological balance, and improving civic infrastructure in the area.
He was accompanied by Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), Devansh Yadav and Executive Engineer, JMC Division 3rd, Er Akhil Dutt, along with other officials of the concerned departments.
Speaking on the occasion, Sham said that the rejuvenation of traditional ponds and water bodies is an essential step toward restoring the natural ecosystem and addressing urban water challenges.
He directed officials to ensure that the work is carried out with utmost quality and transparency, maintaining high standards of workmanship and using only quality materials for sustainable and long-lasting results.
The MLA issued clear instructions to the R&B Department that BT (Black Topping) work should not commence without proper surface preparation and bedding, ensuring durability and resilience of the roads and surrounding infrastructure. He further directed the concerned departments to work in close coordination to avoid any delays or compromises in quality.
Emphasising the importance of cleanliness and public hygiene, Sham nstructed the JMC staff to ensure regular sanitation drives in and around the pond area. He stressed that maintaining cleanliness not only improves the aesthetic appeal of public spaces but also safeguards public health. To ensure accountability and local participation, he announced the formation of an 11-member local committee responsible for continuous monitoring, supervision, and maintenance of the pond.
Reiterating his vision for a clean, green, and progressive Jammu North, Sharma said that the constituency is witnessing rapid development across multiple sectors including road connectivity, sanitation, and water conservation. He reaffirmed that the revival of natural resources remains a cornerstone of his developmental agenda, as these projects benefit both present and future generations.
Sharma also highlighted the government’s focus on people-centric development, stating that initiatives like pond rejuvenation not only enhance local infrastructure but also revive the community’s connection with nature. He urged residents to take ownership of such assets and work collectively with local authorities to sustain the progress achieved through these developmental works.
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner JMC lauded the efforts of Sham Lal Sharma for prioritising conservation-oriented development in Jammu North. He assured complete cooperation from the Municipal Corporation to ensure timely and quality execution of the project.
The Commissioner also announced the installation of 300 new street lights in the area to further enhance civic amenities and improve safety for residents. He emphasised that rejuvenation of ponds and water bodies is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and promoting urban sustainability, while encouraging public participation in maintaining these assets.
The event was attended by prominent citizens, local residents, and party workers.
