• DC seeks focus on Traffic Management; Announces New Bus Stops 

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Dr. Rakesh Minhas chaired the 20th District Road Safety Committee (DRSC) meeting here today. The discussions focus on enhancing traffic management and road safety across the district. The meeting was attended by the Superintendent Engineer, ASP, Chief Education Officer, ARTO, Executive Engineers from different divisions, and representatives from the NHAI, municipalities, and local degree colleges.

The DDC asked for reinforcement of road safety measures, such as the installation of traffic lights, crash barriers and speed breakers in accident-prone areas, besides refurbishment of road signage. Dr. Minhas stressed the importance of spreading mass awareness on road safety and directed municipal authorities to remove unnecessary obstructions in town areas to ease traffic congestion.

The committee announced the construction of four new bus stops under CSR funding within the Municipal Council limits, including areas near the degree colleges in Kathua town, to provide designated boarding points for commuters.

The Deputy Commissioner urged all departments to collaborate in maintaining road safety standards, emphasizing regular monitoring of speed limits, road maintenance, and the prompt repair of damaged infrastructure. He issued specific instructions to the PWD, PMGSY, and NHAI to expedite the completion of key road connectivity projects.

The DC also directed the CEO of the Municipal Council Kathua to pursue funding for the revamp of the Kathua Bus Stand. The committee also examined accident-prone areas identified by the police, outlining measures to minimize road accidents.

Other topics discussed included the construction of bridges over Sawan Chak-Dreamland Park road, improving the road to GDC Hiranagar, intensifying Road Safety Club activities, upgrading the Thein Dam-View Point road, and identifying an auto stand near GMC Kathua. The meeting concluded with a firm commitment from all stakeholders to strengthen road safety initiatives across the district. 

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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