Jammu Master Plan 2032 without Notification

Jammu is experiencing a steady phase of urban expansion marked by rising population pressures, growing commercial activity, and the outward spread of residential settlements into adjoining villages. In response to these changing dynamics, the revision of the Jammu Master Plan 2032 was formally initiated in October 2021 under the provisions of the J&K Development Act 1970. While substantial groundwork has been completed, the final notification of the revised plan continues to remain under consideration, reflecting the complexities often associated with large-scale statutory planning exercises.

The technical process undertaken so far has been comprehensive. The planning boundary has been expanded from 652.33 square kilometers to 777.84 square kilometers, bringing nearly 350 revenue villages within the proposed local planning area. This expansion reflects recognition that Jammu’s urban footprint has already extended beyond traditional municipal limits. Detailed base maps were prepared using satellite imagery, and land use surveys were conducted to assess current development patterns. Traffic and transport studies, along with socio-economic assessments, were also carried out to ensure that the revised plan is grounded in empirical data. The draft revised Master Plan was placed in the public domain for 80 days between October 14, 2024, and January 3, 2025. During this period, 143 objections and suggestions were received from stakeholders, residents, and institutions. A Board of Inquiry was subsequently constituted in January 2025, and public hearings were conducted to examine these inputs. Such consultative measures indicate that the process has sought to incorporate citizen participation within the statutory framework. However, final approval has been delayed due to rectification of land use zoning discrepancies, alignment of planning boundaries with revenue records, and the need for updated inputs from the Revenue and Forest Departments. These interdepartmental verifications are essential to ensure legal clarity and environmental compliance. At the same time, the continued absence of formal notification has raised concerns about the pace of decision-making in a rapidly urbanizing environment. The draft plan outlines significant proposals aimed at strengthening economic growth and infrastructure integration. Commercial land use has been proposed to cover more than 44 square kilometers, while industrial zones are expected to occupy over 14 square kilometers of the net area. These allocations are designed to diversify the regional economy, create employment opportunities, and attract investment. The expanded planning area also seeks to integrate urban extensions and surrounding villages into a unified regulatory framework, thereby reducing the risk of fragmented development. Urban planners have emphasized the need to align land use with transportation networks, sanitation systems, water supply infrastructure, health and educational facilities. In the absence of a notified master plan, development often proceeds without a consolidated statutory blueprint, which can place strain on civic amenities and natural resources. Timely finalization of the plan would therefore provide clarity to developers, investors, and residents alike. The revision exercise was initiated in recognition of unprecedented urban sprawl and the transformation of rural settlements into peri-urban extensions. By extending the planning boundary to 777.84 square kilometers, the authorities have acknowledged the scale of future growth over the next two to three decades. Such long-term spatial planning is critical for ensuring sustainable urban management in emerging agglomerations. While procedural stages such as surveys, mapping, and public consultation have been completed, the final notification remains a key pending milestone. Urban governance requires coordination among multiple departments and the timely resolution of administrative bottlenecks. Ensuring that remaining data inputs and verifications are completed within a defined timeline would help translate planning efforts into enforceable policy. Jammu’s growth trajectory reflects economic vitality and demographic expansion.  The revision of the Master Plan 2032 represents an important opportunity to guide this growth through structured zoning, infrastructure planning, and environmental safeguards. With continued institutional coordination and careful integration of public feedback, the finalization of the plan can provide a balanced and forward-looking framework for Jammu’s sustainable urban future.  The government must now move beyond procedural caution and demonstrate decisive administrative will in finalizing the Jammu Master Plan 2032. While interdepartmental coordination is important, prolonged delays risk encouraging unregulated growth and speculative land use.

A clear timeline for notification, transparent communication with stakeholders, and firm enforcement of interim safeguards are urgently needed. Jammu’s rapid expansion cannot wait indefinitely for policy clarity. Responsible governance demands timely action to protect infrastructure, the environment, and planned urban development.