Legislator Sham Lal launches Rs 3.78 crore sewerage projects in Jammu North

Jammu, Jun 27: In a bid to upgrade urban infrastructure and improve sanitation, Jammu North MLA and former minister Sham Lal Sharma on Friday launched sewerage and drainage development projects worth Rs 3.78 crore in his constituency.

The projects—sanctioned under the Jammu Municipal Corporation and executed by the Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED)—aim to address long-standing issues related to wastewater disposal, rainwater management and public health protection.

The works cover Ward No. 37, which includes Janipur Colony and Shivpuri, with an allocation of Rs 1.96 crore, and Ward No. 59, covering Top Paloura and Mandlik Nagar, with Rs 1.82 crore earmarked.

“These projects are a critical intervention in addressing the sanitation and infrastructure challenges faced by the residents of Janipur and Top Paloura,” Sharma said at the inauguration. “They will ensure improved civic services, a cleaner environment, and a better quality of life.”

Sharma said steps are being taken to strengthen the Environmental Sanitation and Control (ESC) mechanism, including pre-monsoon inspections, field cleaning operations, and quick response measures to tackle local flooding or sewer overflow.

Highlighting public health concerns, he said the improved infrastructure will help reduce the risk of water-borne diseases such as typhoid, cholera and hepatitis. “Our vision extends beyond infrastructure. It’s about building a healthier and more hygienic society,” he said.

He also urged residents to act as responsible custodians of public property, including schools, parks, electric infrastructure and civic facilities.

“These properties belong to all of us. Their upkeep is essential if we are to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat -2047 a developed, self-reliant India powered by citizen engagement,” he said.

Sharma said that this national vision is being guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose emphasis on cleanliness and nation-building continues to inspire people across the country. He also called on citizens to actively participate in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

The launch event was attended by former councilors, BJP leaders, and officials including UEED Executive Engineer Ashwani Khajuria and AEE Sunil Thapa.