Jammu: The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) on Sunday launched a ₹66.52 lakh project for restoration of a pond in Sainik Colony under the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, aimed at rejuvenating traditional water bodies and strengthening water conservation infrastructure in the city.
The foundation stone for the project at Sector-F near the Railway Crossing in Ward No. 70 was laid by Jammu South MLA Dr. Narinder Singh in the presence of senior JMC officials, former public representatives and local residents.
According to officials, the pond has fallen into a dilapidated condition due to the accumulation of weeds, silt, sludge and solid waste, adversely affecting its water-holding capacity and surrounding environment.
The restoration project will include cleaning and desilting, earthwork and re-profiling, dewatering, strengthening of embankments through PCC walls and stone pitching, construction of an RCC filtration chamber, installation of chain-link fencing, surface finishing and provision of solar lighting.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Narinder Singh said traditional water bodies play an important role in rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and maintaining ecological balance. He said the project would help create a cleaner and safer environment for residents while strengthening the area’s water conservation infrastructure.
He said the restoration of the pond would transform a neglected site into a sustainable public asset and serve as a model for rejuvenation of similar water bodies elsewhere in the city.
The project is part of JMC’s broader “Clean Ponds, Healthy Cities” initiative aimed at improving water retention, groundwater recharge and environmental sustainability in urban areas. Local residents welcomed the project and assured support for maintaining the restored pond.
