JDA defends Tawi Barrage, Riverfront Projects at NGT, rebuts environmental concerns

22 November 2024

By: Raja Syed Rather

Jammu: The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) has strongly defended the Tawi Barrage and Riverfront projects at a recent National Green Tribunal (NGT) hearing, responding to the allegations of severe ecological harm.

The case was prompted by a report from sandrp.in, titled Tawi Barrage & Riverfront Projects in Jammu Destroying River, Inviting Disaster, which raised concerns about potential environmental damage and increased disaster risks associated with the projects.

In its submission to the NGT, the JDA as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) rejected these claims, presenting the Tawi Barrage and Riverfront Development Projects as crucial for Jammu’s urban growth and economic progress.

The authority emphasized that both initiatives were meticulously planned and executed with adherence to all regulatory frameworks, with a particular focus on environmental sustainability.

The petition filed before the NGT highlighted potential risks to the natural ecosystem of the Tawi River, including damage to aquatic habitats, disruption of water flow, and the possibility of increased flooding. In response, the JDA assured the tribunal that extensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) were carried out prior to project approval.

The authority also detailed several mitigation strategies, including sediment management, flood control measures, and habitat conservation programs, designed to protect aquatic biodiversity and minimize adverse impacts.

The JDA further pointed out that robust monitoring systems are in place to ensure environmental compliance throughout the projects’ lifespan. Stressing the broader benefits of the Tawi Barrage and Riverfront projects, the JDA portrayed these developments as transformative for Jammu. The Tawi Barrage is expected to enhance water resource management by creating a controlled reservoir, while the riverfront project aims to provide recreational spaces and aesthetic improvements for the city.

The JDA emphasized that the projects align with Jammu’s broader vision of becoming a premier tourist destination and improving urban life for its residents. The riverfront development is also expected to boost tourism and stimulate economic growth, contributing to the region’s long-term prosperity.

Highlighting its commitment to transparency and public involvement, the JDA pointed to consultations with environmental experts, public representatives, and independent auditors during both the planning and execution phases. The authority reiterated that the projects adhere to national guidelines on sustainable development and disaster risk reduction.

Despite the criticism often directed at large-scale infrastructure projects, the JDA defended its approach as one that carefully balances developmental needs with environmental responsibility. The ongoing efforts, according to the JDA, represent a holistic approach to urban planning that prioritizes both growth and ecological preservation. —(KNO)