Kathua (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 8 (ANI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Kathua Waterfront, a transformative urban rejuvenation project, on Sunday, dedicating it to the people of Kathua as a space for recreation, wellness, and community engagement.

The 1,200-metre stretch along the Kathua Canal is designed to reshape the city's landscape, economy, and social fabric while promoting sustainability and women's empowerment.

LG Sinha emphasised that the project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for urban transformation, calling it a 'foundation for a strong future' that balances development with cultural identity.

LG Manoj Sinha said, 'I thank all the contributors to this project, which has been completed under Corporate Social Responsibility. I believe we should not view such developments just like other key infrastructure projects-- a waterfront or riverfront, they enhance the quality of life for people. This project holds significance for Kathua's economic, social, and cultural development. The 1200-metre-long waterfront offers a multifunctional public space--featuring walking, skating, and cycling tracks, a yoga spot, and provision for 15 restaurants.'

'It has also generated direct and indirect employment opportunities for local residents,' he added. The project has already provided direct employment to 150 individuals, with a significant number being women.

'This initiative not only rejuvenates the city but also empowers our Nari Shakti,' Sinha said.

He urged other cities to compete in improving citizens' quality of life, saying, 'Smart cities need smart and responsible citizens.'

Sinha expressed satisfaction with Jammu's infrastructure growth but called for continued efforts to modernise towns and villages.

'Every city has a soul. It nurtures aspirations. We must ensure balanced development,' he said.

The LG also launched the Integrated Command and Control Centre and flagged off a bicycle rally to mark the occasion.

Earlier in the day, Manoj Sinha had launched a scathing attack on Pakistan, accusing the neighboring country of attempting to 'destabilise Jammu and Kashmir's economy, divide people on religious lines, and damage its tourism sector,' even as he laid the foundation stone of a Rs 1,240 crore industrial unit in Kathua. (ANI)