JAMMU: The government has taken up two exclusive drainage projects in Sopore town to improve the drainage network and mitigate water-logging, particularly during heavy rainfall. This information was given by Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, in reply to a Calling Attention Motion moved by MLA Sopore, Irfan Rasool Kar, regarding water logging in Sopore town following rains.

She was replying on behalf of the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah. The Minister stated that Sopore town is predominantly a low-lying area and water accumulation in such locations is natural during heavy showers. She added that to mitigate the situation, five dewatering pumps available with the Municipal Council, Sopore, are being deployed for immediate drainage of accumulated water with additional support from the Fire and Emergency Services as and when required.

The Minister further informed that under the UT Capex (Drainage Sector), two projects have been taken up in Sopore town. The Drainage Scheme Sopore (D/S Sopore) is currently under execution at a sanctioned cost of ₹4.97 crore. Besides, construction of a deep drain at Lane number 06, Bagi Sana, Badam Bagh, Sopore, costing ₹35 lakh, has been completed, she informed.

She added that these works are aimed at strengthening the drainage infrastructure and mitigating water-logging during heavy rainfall. In addition, the matter has been taken up with the J&K Urban Environmental Engineering Department on March 25, 2026, for preparation of a comprehensive DPR for the drainage network in Sopore town, she said.

The Minister also stated that the Municipal Council, Sopore, is regularly undertaking the cleaning of drains with available manpower and machinery, wherever required. She further informed that the PW (R&B) Division Sopore has been approached on March 19, 2026, for preparation of estimates for desilting of existing drains within the urban limits of Sopore town and action will be initiated during the current financial year upon receipt of these estimates. The Minister added that funds amounting ₹6.40 lakh have been released by the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies, Kashmir, for the desilting of drains.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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