Community-Centric Design: Chamber’s Blueprint for Jammu

Historically, Jammu has flourished as a commercial center, acting as an entry point for a variety of different economic activities. Although the projected Katra-Delhi Expressway offers better infrastructure and connectivity, there are also hitches that should be carefully considered. The Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry delegation has been a prominent voice for the region’s economic prosperity, realizing the risk that the way things are currently being built could pose to people’s means of subsistence. The Hon’ble Union Minister of Road, Transport, and Highways and the Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCI) Jammu held meaningful deliberations recently, with the helpful input of Sh. Arun Gupta. The main focus of these discussions was to advocate for subtle modifications to the Katra-Delhi Expressway’s proposed construction designs.

At the heart of the matter lies the proposed construction design of the expressway flyover, notably the sections spanning from Kunjwani to Narwal and Kunjwani to Satwari. A critical concern voiced by the delegation pertains to the implementation of blind walls along these stretches. While the imperative for infrastructure development is acknowledged, valid apprehensions have been raised about the potential ramifications of blind walls on both sides of the expressway. Blind walls, as envisaged, have the potential to divide vital connections between commercial establishments, residences, and various community-centric spaces. In an era dominated by advanced technologies, the delegation posits a poignant question about adherence to archaic patterns that may not align with the current needs of the community. These concerns extend beyond inconveniences for residents, encompassing potential hindrances to emergency services and disruptions to daily pedestrian commutes. The areas earmarked for the expressway predominantly serve commercial purposes, hosting an array of activities such as wholesale markets, malls, hospitals, retail outlets, and small-scale services. The proposed construction designs have the potential to impact approximately 502 commercial establishments, including shops, showrooms, godowns, schools, offices, hospitals, malls, and sheds. This disruption imperils the livelihoods of households directly dependent on these establishments, thereby posing a significant economic disturbance. An in-depth analysis of the affected area from Kunjwani to Narwal reveals the presence of a wholesale fruit market, mandi, and garages for heavy vehicles. The cascading impact extends to 365 shops, 10 vehicle showrooms, 37 godowns, 5 schools, 65 office spaces, 7 hospitals, 5 malls, and 8 shops in sheds. The economic repercussions are not confined to commercial establishments; they extend to households losing their shops and godowns, thereby impacting the overall economy of Jammu. In response to these multifaceted challenges, the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu has submitted a compelling proposal: a community-friendly pillar-based design for the expressway flyover in the Kunjwani to Narwal section. This proposed modification takes into account the residential and commercial nature of the Kunjwani to Narwal section, presenting a community-centric design that aligns with the diverse range of activities in the area. The modification, it is argued, aims not only to preserve the economic stability of the region but also to serve as a blueprint for inclusive and sustainable infrastructure development. Beyond these economic considerations lies a poignant concern for the livelihoods of shopkeepers facing the imminent threat of losing their establishments due to the proposed flyover design from the Kunjwani to the Satwari section. These businesses, with a legacy spanning over six decades, play a pivotal role in supporting the local community. The potential loss of livelihoods due to the proposed design underscores the imperative for a careful and considerate approach to development. The delegation’s request for a slight shift of the flyover to salvage the livelihoods of shopkeepers is not a mere entreaty for individual businesses. It is a plea to safeguard the economic stability of families, preserve the unique character of the region, and showcase the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses. As we navigate the intricate terrain of infrastructure development, the pressing need for sustainable business practices emerges as a resounding theme. Sustainable practices transcend immediate economic gains, encompassing the social, cultural, and environmental dimensions of development. In the case of Jammu, sustaining livelihoods involves considerations beyond the economic realm. The role of the government in balancing progress and preservation assumes paramount significance. The commitment of the Hon’ble Union Minister of Road, Transport, and Highways, Sh. Nitin Gadkari, to personally address the issues raised by the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu is an encouraging development. This assurance reflects an adherence to democratic principles, acknowledging the importance of inclusive decision-making. It signifies an understanding that development must be a collaborative effort, taking into account the perspectives and concerns of the local community.

In short, Jammu’s livelihoods stand at a precarious juncture, and the proposed adjustments presented by the Chamber of Commerce & Industry delegation transcend mere requests for alterations in construction plans. They constitute a plea for a balanced and sustainable approach to development—one that values the economic, social, and cultural well-being of the region. As Jammu continues its evolutionary trajectory, it becomes imperative to embrace development strategies that uplift the community rather than disrupt its foundations. The proposed modifications to the expressway designs present an opportunity to showcase that progress and preservation can go hand in hand, creating a blueprint for responsible and inclusive development that extends far beyond the confines of Jammu, serving as an exemplar for the nation. In commendation of the Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry, their proactive posture and constructive proposals exemplify a commendable commitment to the welfare of the community. Their advocacy for nuanced adjustments to the Katra-Delhi Expressway designs, coupled with the insightful proposal for a community-friendly pillar-based design, showcases a deep understanding of the region’s intricacies. The Chamber’s efforts to safeguard not just economic interests but also the cultural and social fabric of Jammu are laudable.

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