Tawi River Declared the Soul of Jammu by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha at Tawi Aarti Ceremony

Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha participated in the Tawi Aarti at the Tawi Riverfront project, describing the river as the city's soul. The aarti coincided with the Baisakhi festival, creating a divine scene. Sinha highlighted the Tawi River's connection to Jammu's essence, representing cultural and spiritual ideas. The aarti aims to revive ancient culture, marking a new era, according to Sinha.

He urged efforts to reduce pollution, aiming to make the Tawi riverfront a unique attraction. "Be proud of your city. The prerequisite for making a city beautiful is that the citizens should have unwavering pride and love for their city," Sinha told Jammu's residents. He commended Jammu Smart City Limited for its recent achievements.

Urban Development and Environmental Initiatives

Projects like the heritage trail near Raghunath Bazaar, residency road upgrades, and Gandhi Nagar's street development showcase revitalised zones. These areas have become vibrant, accessible spaces. Sinha noted over five hectares of green spaces developed at Panama Chowk, Balidan Stambh, near Jammu University, and along Ranbir Canal from BSF Paloura headquarters to Pawan Ice Cream.

Public art installations such as 3D murals, wall paintings, and sculptures are enhancing Jammu's cityscape. These artistic additions give Jammu a distinct and proud identity. In transportation, 100 electric AC buses now connect major towns in Jammu province. These buses feature live tracking, CCTV cameras, and digital payment options for cleaner and safer commuting.

Smart City Vision and Technological Advancements

Sinha emphasised that Smart City initiatives focus more on people than technology. "Our vision is clear — to make Jammu not just smart, but safe, green, inclusive, and future-ready," he stated. The Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) and Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) ensure efficient city operations with regular safety measures.

Sinha praised the commitment to environmental sustainability seen in these projects. The developments reflect a dedication to creating people-friendly spaces while maintaining ecological balance. The combination of modern infrastructure and cultural preservation aims to enhance Jammu's appeal as a progressive yet traditional city.

The Tawi Aarti serves as a medium to express ancient values on this sacred river's banks. Sinha believes today's grand ceremony marks the start of a new chapter for the region. He encouraged citizens to take pride in their city as they witness its transformation into a more beautiful place.