The Rural Development Department in Udhampur is planning to construct 260 traditional wells to address water scarcity in rural areas and strengthen groundwater availability. Of the proposed wells, 50 will be constructed under the District Capex budget, while around 210 have been planned under the VB-G RAM G scheme. Construction of 17 wells under the scheme is already underway. Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Udhampur, Om Parkash, said the locations for these wells were identified based on feedback received during Gram Sabhas and Panchayat meetings to ensure that the facilities benefit areas facing water shortages. The initiative aims to improve access to water for rural households, agriculture and livestock, particularly during the summer months when water scarcity becomes a major challenge. Traditional wells are also expected to support groundwater recharge and provide communities with an additional source of water during dry periods. The project will further generate employment opportunities for local workers through construction activities, contributing to rural development and livelihood generation. With 260 wells planned across the district, the initiative is expected to strengthen village-level water infrastructure and improve water security in Udhampur.