Jammu, Apr 29 (UNI) The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) officials along with the Urban Environment Engineering Department (UEED) on Tuesday interacted with the local populace before executing Banganga rejuvenation project as per the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The joint initiative of SMVDSB and UEED aimed to restore and conserve the Banganga through a comprehensive project approved at an estimated cost Rs.92.10 Crore under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) of Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India focusing on Banganga beautification by constructing a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) to improve sewage conditions in and around Banganga area, besides development of bathing ghats, cremation ghats, ecological restoration and promoting sustainable pilgrimage experiences.

Before execution of the works, a joint visit led by Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB accompanied by Joint Chief Executive Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Katra; Tehsildar and ACF, SMVDSB; a team of officers from the UEED, Engineering and Sanitation Departments of the Shrine Board and the local residents.

“The visit aimed to conduct a preliminary meeting with locals to understand their concerns and assess the area for the Banganga rejuvenation project, including the construction of a STP,” said a Shrine Board spokesman.

He said that the local habitants shared their concerns and suggestions during the meeting, providing valuable insights that would inform the project's design and implementation.

“The issues highlighted were the removal of sheds adjacent to the Banganga embankments which are currently being used for ponies and are contributing to the flow of horse dung into the holy river, greening of embankments, revival of existing vatikas, commencement of Banganga Arti, track widening and construction of cremation ghat to improve the overall environment and aesthetic appeal of the Banganga area, while ensuring the sustainability of the project,” he said.

As per the spokesman, the CEO instructed the concerned quarters to share the line diagram of the Banganga rejuvenation project with the stakeholders, ensuring everyone involved has a clear understanding of the project's scope and layout.

He also reiterated that a copy of the diagram will also be kept in the office of the Incharge Banganga for reference and review as this will facilitate better coordination, implementation and monitoring of the project.

The team however, conducted a thorough assessment of the Banganga area, identifying key works required for the project while the assessment helped develop a comprehensive understanding of the project's requirements and opportunities, enabling the team to plan and execute the project effectively, he stated.

The assessment also facilitated a sense of ownership and cooperation among the local community, crucial for the project's success and meeting the community's needs and expectations for a more sustainable and beneficial outcome, he said.

Notably, the Shrine Board under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor, Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, actively initiated works on rejuvenating the Banganga rivulet in Katra.

The initiative includes synchronized development and contiguous embankments to enhance the natural environment and visual appeal, as well as desilting and renovation of bathing ghats. Mission-mode efforts have been undertaken to remove waste in a phased manner and a drainage system with interceptor chambers has been constructed to divert polluted water for the overall health of the rivulet.

Additionally, projects like the Banganga Arti and Multimedia Laser Show are being conceptualized to enrich the spiritual and aesthetic experience for pilgrims, he added.



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