Dec 12 : The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has stepped up its drive to restore and revive traditional water bodies across the city as part of its ongoing water conservation campaign. JMC Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav today conducted an on-ground inspection to assess the progress of restoration efforts in several key areas.
During the visit, Dr. Yadav reviewed the restoration work at water bodies in Ward No. 55 (Deeli) and Ward No. 68 (Ratnu Chak), highlighting the importance of conserving these age-old natural assets. He emphasised that such water sources are vital for sustaining local ecology and maintaining groundwater levels while serving as heritage structures that reflect Jammu’s traditional environmental practices.
Protecting and Reviving Natural Water Sources
Addressing officials and field staff during the inspection, Commissioner Yadav underscored the need to protect water bodies from encroachment and degradation. He reiterated that once restored, these sites should remain functional and beneficial to surrounding communities. Yadav stated that the restoration projects include not only desilting and cleaning work but also measures to secure each water body, improving water retention and recharge capacity.
The Commissioner highlighted that such efforts will support better groundwater recharge, enhance the city’s water sustainability, and contribute to a healthier environment for residents. He pointed out that revitalised water bodies can alleviate pressure on municipal supply systems and make neighbourhoods more resilient to water scarcity.
Community Involvement & Civic Responsibility
Dr. Yadav also called on local residents and civic groups to engage actively in safeguarding natural water resources. He stressed that community participation is essential to long-term conservation success, urging citizens to report issues such as encroachment or pollution promptly. By involving the public, the JMC aims to foster a shared sense of responsibility for these critical environmental assets.
Officials accompanying the Commissioner during the field visit included JMC Joint Commissioner (Works) Firdous Ahmed Qazi, Health Officer Dr. Vinod Sharma, and Executive Engineer Division 5 Yasir Bashir Kichloo, along with other senior officers and field staff. Their presence underscored JMC’s coordinated approach to planning and executing restoration works at the local level.
JMC’s Broader Water Conservation Agenda
The inspection comes amid a broader effort by the JMC to strengthen urban water sustainability and improve environmental infrastructure. Reviving traditional ponds and other water bodies aligns with the corporation’s goal of enhancing natural resource management, especially in the face of seasonal fluctuations and urbanisation pressures.
Conservation of water bodies not only helps in environmental protection but also plays a key role in recharging underground aquifers — a critical need for Jammu as the city grows. The JMC has previously highlighted that restoring these sites can help mitigate groundwater depletion and ensure a more reliable water supply across multiple wards
