Kathua’s Historic Heart Reimagined with New Public Space Along the Canal

LG Sh. Manoj Sinha
LG Sh. Manoj Sinha

JUNE 09: In a major step toward enhancing urban life and community wellbeing, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated the newly developed Kathua Waterfront, a scenic and multifunctional public space along the Kathua Canal. Spanning 1200 meters in the heart of the city, the project is designed to become a vibrant hub of cultural, recreational, and environmental activity.

During the inauguration ceremony, LG Sinha emphasized the importance of such developments in reshaping the social and economic fabric of cities like Kathua. “This waterfront is not just an infrastructure project—it is a symbol of Kathua’s growing identity as a modern, people-centric city. It will positively influence the urban landscape, strengthen the local economy, and serve as a center for cultural interaction,” he remarked.

The Kathua Waterfront features a thoughtfully designed layout that includes a walking track, open yoga spaces, restaurants, and cafes—elements aimed at promoting a healthier lifestyle and creating a community-driven environment. By offering an accessible, safe, and green urban space, the project seeks to improve overall quality of life while encouraging citizens to engage with their surroundings in new ways.

Officials stated that the project integrates sustainable planning practices, including the preservation of natural elements around the canal and the use of eco-friendly materials in construction. This blend of environmental care with cultural infrastructure is expected to make the Kathua Waterfront a model for similar initiatives across the Union Territory.

The new public space is also poised to host cultural events, local art showcases, and open-air gatherings, further strengthening community ties and providing economic opportunities for local vendors and artisans. It is anticipated that the project will boost tourism, enhance real estate value in surrounding areas, and serve as a catalyst for further development.

LG Sinha reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building people-focused infrastructure that not only supports economic growth but also preserves the unique identity of cities like Kathua.

The Kathua Waterfront now stands as a symbol of inclusive urban renewal—one that brings together history, nature, and modern civic life in a way that celebrates both heritage and progress.