Jammu, Mar 25: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a detailed review meeting on the progress of the Tawi Artificial Lake and Riverfront Development Project under the Smart City initiative, focusing on riverfront works, barrage construction, sewerage interception, and protection measures.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Jal Shakti Department, Commissioner Secretary H&UDD, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, JMC Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner Jammu, and Chief Engineer PWD/UEED.
Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary Jal Shakti, reported that all 31 barrage gates—11 at Waddi Tawi and 20 at Nikki Tawi—are largely installed, with hydromechanical works nearing completion. Electrical works, including transformers, HT/LT panels, and SCADA systems, are progressing, while civil works such as piers, toe walls, and the control room are almost complete. Remaining work for operationalisation of barrage gates is targeted for month-end completion.
Phase-1 (Part A) of the riverfront, covering a 2.7 km promenade and 2.5 km of interceptor drains, has been completed, reclaiming 440 kanals of land. Retaining walls, built 1.5 metres above the 2014 flood level, have withstood recent floods, demonstrating robust design.
Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar highlighted progress on a four-lane road along the right bank, including a 35-m RCC bridge, which will ease congestion along the Canal Road–Jewel Chowk corridor.
Under Phase-1 (Part B), CEO Jammu Smart City Limited, Devansh Yadav, noted that promenade flooring, landscaping, decorative lighting, and plantation works are underway, with 55% physical progress and a completion target of 2–3 months.
Protection works at vulnerable locations, including retaining walls and nallah diversions, are ongoing with a total cost of ₹11.96 crore. Sewerage interception works have achieved over 85% completion, with restoration of flood-damaged sections underway.
Chief Secretary Dulloo directed all agencies to accelerate work, maintain quality, and meet deadlines ahead of the upcoming flood season, stressing that the project will modernize Jammu’s riverfront, enhance urban mobility, improve flood management, and boost economic potential.