SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has shortlisted four major urban infrastructure projects worth an estimated Rs 1,990.37 crore for funding under the Government of India’s Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), with the proposals expected to leverage Central assistance, Union Territory funding and market-based financing to accelerate sustainable urban development.
The projects were reviewed on Tuesday at a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, who assessed the progress made by the Housing and Urban Development Department (H and UDD) in identifying and shortlisting projects for submission under the Centre’s flagship urban financing initiative.
According to officials, the four shortlisted projects have a combined estimated cost of Rs 1,990.37 crore, comprising proposed Central assistance of Rs 495.86 crore, a Union Territory contribution of Rs 486.12 crore and nearly Rs 1,008.38 crore to be mobilised through market-based financing.
Commissioner Secretary, H and UDD, Mandeep Kaur informed the meeting that the Urban Challenge Fund has been conceived by the Government of India to promote bankable and revenue-generating urban infrastructure projects through a blend of Central support, market financing and contributions from States and Union Territories.
The shortlisted projects include the Walled City and Nigeen Lakefront Revitalisation project, aimed at conserving heritage assets while improving tourism infrastructure and the urban environment; TARANG – Tawi Area Regeneration and Green Growth Project, which seeks comprehensive regeneration of the Tawi riverfront through sustainable and environmentally friendly development; Lidder Riverfront Development, proposed to transform the riverfront into a catalyst for planned urban growth while positioning Anantnag as a counter-magnet city; and KRIPA – Katra Revitalisation through Integrated Pilgrimage Amenities (Transit-Oriented Development), intended to strengthen civic infrastructure, improve mobility and enhance facilities for pilgrims visiting Katra.
During the meeting, Municipal Commissioners presented details of the shortlisted projects from their respective jurisdictions.
The Chief Secretary directed departments to ensure that all proposals strictly comply with the Urban Challenge Fund guidelines and are supported by detailed feasibility studies, sustainable financing models and clear implementation plans.
He also stressed the need for close coordination with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to facilitate timely appraisal and approval of the projects, while directing officials to expedite the preparation of detailed project reports and complete all necessary formalities.
Dulloo said the proposed projects should address immediate urban infrastructure needs while promoting long-term economic growth, improving public services, enhancing urban resilience and supporting environmentally sustainable development across Jammu and Kashmir.
