JAMMU: Continuing the momentum of infrastructure development across Jammu North Assembly Constituency, MLA Jammu North Sham Lal Sharma today commenced the construction of Gabion (Crate) Structures along a nallah in Ward No. 65, Patoli Brahmana under the SASCI Scheme. The project, being executed by the Flood Control Department, entails an investment of approximately ₹2.31 crore and is aimed at protecting the nallah banks from erosion, mitigating flood-related risks and safeguarding public infrastructure, adjoining residential areas and other public assets. The initiative marks another important step towards strengthening flood protection infrastructure and ensuring long-term public safety in the area.
The proposed gabion structures will play a crucial role in stabilizing vulnerable stretches of the nallah, preventing soil erosion and minimizing damage caused during heavy rainfall and flash floods. The project will not only strengthen the flood management system but also enhance the resilience of the area against natural calamities while protecting critical infrastructure and improving the overall safety of nearby habitations.
On the occasion, Sham Lal Sharma expressed his gratitude to the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, for sanctioning substantial financial assistance under the SASCI Scheme for the restoration of infrastructure damaged due to floods and other natural calamities in Jammu and Kashmir. He said that the Centre’s timely support has enabled the execution of critical flood protection and restoration projects, which are strengthening vulnerable areas, safeguarding public infrastructure and enhancing disaster resilience. He observed that such initiatives reflect the Government’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development and ensuring long-term safety and security for the people of the Union Territory.
Reiterating his commitment to the comprehensive development of Jammu North, Sham Lal Sharma stated that strengthening flood protection infrastructure is an integral part of planned and sustainable development. He emphasized that preventive works such as gabion protection structures are essential for safeguarding lives, property and public assets from the adverse impact of floods and soil erosion. He directed the concerned officers to ensure strict adherence to technical specifications, maintain the highest standards of quality and complete the project within the stipulated timeframe so that the intended benefits reach the people at the earliest.
The commencement of the works was attended by Chairman, Yogananda Engineering College, Shri Vidhi Singh Jamwal; Mandal President Shri Pankaj Padha; Former Councillor (Ward No. 63) Shri Kuldeep Singh, Executive Engineer, Flood Control Department, Jammu, Shri Tilak Raj Sharma; Assistant Executive Engineer Shri Mohinder Pal Singh; besides officers of the Flood Control Department, party functionaries, distinguished citizens and local residents. The gathering welcomed the commencement of the project and expressed confidence that the flood protection works would significantly enhance public safety, strengthen disaster preparedness and further reinforce the infrastructure of Jammu North Assembly Constituency.
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness profoundly shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at In Loving Memory · Dr. Priya Ranjan
When he appointed me Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor, he never treated me as an employee, but as a younger brother, offering warmth, trust, respect and invaluable guidance. I will always be grateful for his faith in me, his encouragement and the lessons he shared.
Dr. Ranjan was a rare and noble soul—humble, compassionate, intellectually brilliant and always willing to help others. A visionary thinker, he believed in using knowledge and abilities to make a meaningful difference. His influence lives on through the people he guided, the work he inspired and the countless lives he touched.
For me, he will always be the elder brother who believed in me and guided me with affection. I will cherish his kindness and lessons forever. May his soul rest in eternal peace. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
(Ajmer Alam Wani)

