Srinagar: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Tuesday reviewed the progress in identifying and shortlisting urban infrastructure projects proposed to be taken up under the Government of India’s Urban Challenge Fund (UCF).
According to an official statement, the meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD), Mandeep Kaur, Municipal Commissioners and other senior officers.
Dulloo directed the departments concerned to prepare financially viable proposals aligned with the UCF guidelines and backed by feasibility studies, sustainable financing models and clear implementation plans. He also stressed the need to expedite detailed project reports and coordinate with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for timely appraisal and approval.
The Commissioner Secretary informed the meeting that Jammu and Kashmir has shortlisted four urban development projects with an estimated cost of ₹1,990.37 crore. The proposals envisage Central assistance of ₹495.86 crore, a UT share of ₹486.12 crore and about ₹1,008.38 crore through market-based financing.
According to the statement, the shortlisted projects include the Walled City and Nigeen Lakefront Revitalisation project in Srinagar, the TARANG (Tawi Area Regeneration and Green Growth) project in Jammu, the Lidder Riverfront Development project in Anantnag, and KRIPA (Katra Revitalisation through Integrated Pilgrimage Amenities), aimed at improving civic infrastructure and pilgrim facilities in Katra.
The Chief Secretary said successful implementation of the projects would strengthen urban infrastructure, improve public services, promote tourism, attract investment and support sustainable urban development across Jammu and Kashmir, the statement added.
