Avinash Azad
In response to a query raised by BJP MLA from Jammu West constituency, Arvind Gupta, the government has provided a comprehensive update on the much-anticipated Tawi River Front Project, a flagship development initiative aimed at transforming the city of temples into a major tourist attraction.
During the latest session of the Legislative Assembly, MLA Arvind Gupta sought details regarding the present status of the under-construction Tawi River Front and the Tawi Barrage/Artificial Lake, including the timeline for completion, tendering and allotment dates, estimated costs, and expenditure incurred so far.
In its official reply, the government disclosed that significant progress has been made on the Tawi River Front Development, with 96 percent of work on the left bank and 94 percent on the right bank completed. Financially, Rs. 55.36 crore has been spent out of the allotted Rs. 68.47 crore for the left bank, while Rs. 66.75 crore out of the Rs. 74.53 crore allotted amount has been utilized for the right bank. The project, being executed in phases, is expected to see the completion of Phase I by April 2025 within the sanctioned budget of Rs. 143 crore.
Further pressing for clarity on the expected completion timeline and revised budget estimates, MLA Arvind Gupta also inquired about the status of the Tawi Barrage (Artificial Lake) project under the Jal Shakti Department. In its response, the government confirmed that 85 percent of the work on the barrage has been completed. The project, which was tendered on May 11, 2022, and allotted on September 7, 2022, is progressing as per the revised schedule. The pondage is expected to be completed by April 2025, while the remaining works are slated for completion by June 2025.
The government further informed that the estimated cost of the Tawi Barrage stands at Rs. 64.80 crore, of which Rs. 36.15 crore has already been spent. The Tawi River Front, once completed, is expected to revamp Jammu’s urban landscape and boost tourism, offering a scenic riverfront promenade, enhanced infrastructure, and improved water management. The project, initially marred by delays, is now being closely monitored to meet the revised deadline. The people of Jammu, eagerly awaiting the completion of this ambitious project, will be keenly observing if the administration adheres to its latest commitment of an April-June 2025 timeline for full completion.
