Jammu, Oct 18: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Sunday inaugurated flood protection works worth ₹5.91 crore along vulnerable stretches of the Nikki Tawi and Waddi Tawi rivers in Jammu to curb erosion, reduce flood risks and protect habitations, agricultural land and public infrastructure.

The projects, funded under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme and NABARD, aim to strengthen riverbanks and improve resilience against heavy rainfall and rising water levels.
MLA Bahu Ch. Vikram Randhawa and MLA Marh Surinder Kumar attended the respective inauguration events.
The first project, costing ₹229.94 lakh under SASCI, involves flood protection along the left bank of the Nikki Tawi downstream of the 4th Bridge at Belicharana. The intervention aims to protect nearby settlements, farmland and public infrastructure from erosion and flooding.
The second project, worth ₹69 lakh under SASCI, involves constructing two 18-metre-long spurs along the left side of the Waddi Tawi at Channi Nankey, Nandni. The structures are designed to regulate river flow and minimise erosion. Rana directed that the remaining work be completed on priority.
The third project, funded by NABARD at an estimated cost of ₹292 lakh, covers the right bank of the Nikki Tawi from Omman Post to Makwal Forward Post in village Makwal. The work includes revetment crates and earthen embankments to reinforce vulnerable riverbanks and protect agricultural land and local infrastructure in the border village.
Emphasising the need for proactive flood management amid changing weather patterns, Rana said preventive interventions, sound engineering and resilient infrastructure were essential to protecting lives, livelihoods and public assets.
He directed the concerned departments to ensure timely execution, adhere to prescribed technical standards and maintain strict quality control. He also called for regular monitoring and coordination among departments to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the projects.
The Minister stressed that flood management must focus on anticipating risks and preventing damage rather than merely responding to emergencies after disasters strike.
The three projects are expected to strengthen vulnerable river stretches, reduce erosion and improve protection for communities and agricultural areas exposed to recurring flood risks.