Kathua, June 9, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Kathua Waterfront, a transformative urban rejuvenation project, on Sunday, dedicating it to the residents of Kathua. Spanning a 1,200-meter stretch along the Kathua Canal in the heart of the city, this initiative is poised to redefine the urban landscape, stimulate the local economy, and foster community engagement in this historic region.
The Kathua Waterfront is a vibrant public space designed to cater to diverse groups, featuring walking tracks, cycling tracks, skating tracks, yoga zones, and a lively food street with 15 restaurants and cafes. The project emphasizes sustainability, urban aesthetics, and community well-being, aiming to enhance cultural activities and elevate Kathua’s identity as a modern, livable city. Speaking at the inauguration, LG Manoj Sinha highlighted the project’s alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for urban development that balances modernity with cultural preservation.
“This Kathua Waterfront is a unique space that will shape the urban landscape, boost the economy, and strengthen the social fabric of Kathua,” said LG Manoj Sinha. “I urge other cities to emulate such initiatives to enhance the quality of life for their citizens.” He emphasized the importance of climate-resilient infrastructure and green spaces to address climate change challenges, directing officials to prioritize biodiversity and sustainability in future projects.
The project has created significant economic opportunities, directly employing around 150 individuals, with a strong focus on women empowerment. Most beneficiaries are women, underscoring the initiative’s role in promoting gender equality and economic growth. “I am delighted that this project has empowered women, contributing to the broader mission of urban rejuvenation,” LG Sinha remarked.
In addition to the waterfront, LG Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Integrated Command and Control Centre in Kathua to strengthen civic management. He also flagged off a Bicycle Rally to celebrate the occasion, promoting health and wellness. Furthering community outreach, he instructed the district administration to identify rural areas for upcoming Rotary Club surgical camps.
The event saw the presence of key dignitaries, including Chairman of the District Development Council (DDC) Kathua, MLAs Dr. Bharat Bhushan, Rajiv Jasrotia, Darshan Singh, and Dr. Rameshwar Singh, as well as senior officials like Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu, and Dr. Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner, Kathua. A large gathering of youth and locals joined in celebrating this milestone, which positions Kathua as a burgeoning urban hub and a potential tourism destination.
The Kathua Waterfront exemplifies Jammu and Kashmir’s commitment to sustainable urban development, economic empowerment, and community-driven progress, setting a benchmark for other cities in the region.
