Kathua, April 19, 2025: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, joined by Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh and local representatives, inaugurated a cutting-edge multi-storey Municipal Parking Complex in Kathua on Saturday, April 19, 2025, marking a transformative step toward modernizing the district’s urban landscape. The ₹4-crore facility, designed to accommodate over 120 vehicles, aims to ease chronic traffic congestion, enhance civic convenience, and drive local commerce, aligning with Jammu and Kashmir’s vision for smarter, citizen-centric cities.
The inauguration, highlighted in posts on X by the Chief Minister’s Office, underscores Kathua’s commitment to addressing urban challenges. “This parking complex is a milestone in improving mobility and supporting Kathua’s economic growth,” Chief Minister Abdullah said, emphasizing its role in fostering a more accessible city. Dr. Jitendra Singh, a prominent advocate for Kathua’s development, praised the collaborative effort, noting its synergy with initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and recent industrial projects, such as Dhunseri Group’s proposed BOPP film unit.
Located in Kathua’s bustling urban center, the multi-storey complex tackles the district’s longstanding parking shortages, which have congested streets and hampered local businesses. With space for 120 cars across multiple levels, the facility is set to reduce roadside parking, improve traffic flow, and create a safer, more walkable environment. “This will make shopping and commuting easier, boosting our markets,” said Sunita Devi, a local vendor near Patel Bazar.
Funded through municipal development programs, the complex incorporates modern features like surveillance systems and optimized space design, reflecting sustainable urban planning principles. It complements Kathua’s economic ascent, driven by investments like the ₹120-crore Bloomtex textile unit and the region’s first Industrial Biotech Park, both championed by Dr. Jitendra Singh. The facility is also poised to support Kathua’s tourism potential, amplified by events like the Amarnath Yatra 2025, which saw 4,200 registrations on its first day.
Local leaders, including District Development Council Chairperson Col. Mahan Singh, were instrumental in prioritizing the project to meet community needs. The complex’s launch follows other infrastructure milestones in Kathua, such as seven new water supply schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission, reinforcing the district’s development momentum. Chief Minister Abdullah’s focus on citizen-first governance, seen in initiatives like Srinagar’s Amarnath Yatra preparations, further contextualizes this achievement.
The Municipal Parking Complex positions Kathua as a model for urban progress in Jammu and Kashmir, addressing practical needs while fostering economic vitality. By streamlining mobility and supporting local trade, the facility lays the foundation for a more connected, prosperous, and inclusive district, embodying the region’s commitment to innovative urban solutions.