Kathua Inaugurates First Municipal Parking Complex: A Milestone in Urban Transformation
In a significant development for the urban infrastructure of Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah today jointly inaugurated Kathua’s first-ever Municipal Parking Complex, marking a pivotal moment in the town’s transformation into a modern urban hub.

Addressing a gathering of local residents and officials, Dr. Jitendra Singh described the inauguration as symbolic of the rapid changes Kathua has undergone in recent years. Reflecting on the town’s history, he recalled, “There was a time when only three cars were visible in the entire city—one each belonging to the DC, SP, and Executive Engineer. Today, we are inaugurating a full-fledged parking facility, a sign of how private vehicles have increased and the town’s growing urban aspirations.”

The parking complex is part of a series of infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing the region. Dr. Singh highlighted that in the last decade, Kathua has seen transformative changes such as the introduction of Vande Bharat trains, three new medical colleges, a Biotech Park, and the construction of an Engineering and Homeopathy College. Additionally, Kathua’s railway station has undergone significant upgrades to enhance connectivity.

During the ceremony, Dr. Singh also emphasized the role of infrastructure projects like the Express Corridor, which will soon allow direct travel from Kathua to Delhi in just five hours. This, he noted, will significantly improve mobility and economic opportunities for the region.

Dr. Singh further addressed the region’s social challenges, including illegal mining and drug abuse. He stressed the need for a united effort from the government, civil society, and families to address these issues and ensure that Kathua is known not for these challenges but as a model town of development and progress.

The event also highlighted several landmark projects, including the Kediyan-Gandyal Bridge, a statue of Maharaja Gulab Singh at the Jammu & Kashmir border, and a large stadium supported by BCCI. Dr. Singh also acknowledged the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in fostering development, citing projects such as Birla Park, which he encouraged CM Omar Abdullah to visit.

As Dr. Singh concluded his remarks, he stressed the importance of sustaining the region’s development through responsible planning and community involvement. He reminded the gathering that a prosperous Kathua depends on its youth staying away from harmful activities like drug abuse, so they can benefit from and contribute to the region’s growing infrastructure and prosperity.

With the inauguration of the Municipal Parking Complex, Dr. Singh expressed confidence that Kathua’s ongoing transformation would serve as an inspiration for other towns and regions across India, reflecting the country’s broader urbanization and development goals.

This landmark project stands as a testament to Kathua’s rising role in the socio-economic revival of Jammu & Kashmir, heralding a future of continued growth and progress.