Jammu & Kashmir's Ambitious Water Security and Flood Control Plan Unveiled

Jammu and Kashmir plans comprehensive flood management with a new inter-department committee. The government announced enhanced capital expenditure for flood control and irrigation. Projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission, NABARD, and other flagship initiatives aim to ensure water security and ecological restoration across the region.

A high-level inter-department committee is being established to bolster flood control and water security in Jammu & Kashmir, announced Cabinet Minister Javed Ahmed Rana on Friday. Rana, also in charge of the Jal Shakti department, highlighted the effective crisis management exhibited during the 2025 floods in the Assembly.

The minister disclosed a significant rise in capital outlay, marking a 62% increase for the fiscal year 2026-27, with a proposed expenditure of Rs 996 crore. Under the flood management project on Jhelum River, improved flood-carrying capacity enhances safety between Sangam and Padshahibagh.

The government is pushing forward on water assurance under the Jal Jeevan Mission, with 98 water testing labs operational and substantial progress on irrigation schemes. Key initiatives are also supported by NABARD and other institutional backers, underscoring a significant focus on ecological restoration and tribal development.

(With inputs from agencies.)