Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, along with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, inaugurated first-ever Multi-level Parking Complex in heart of Kathua town
Published: Apr 21, 2025
By TIOLCorplaws News Service
NEW DELHI, APR 21, 2025: IN a significant push for urban infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today jointly inaugurated the first-ever Municipal Parking Complex in the town of Kathua, marking a milestone in the region's transformation from a sleepy town to a modern urban hub.
Addressing a packed gathering under the sweltering sun, Dr. Jitendra Singh described the inauguration as a symbol of Kathua's rapid urban evolution, underscoring how a town once unfamiliar with personal vehicles now demands structured car parking solutions. "There was a time when only three cars were visible in the entire city - one each belonging to the DC, SP, and Executive Engineer," he recalled. "Today, we are inaugurating a full-fledged parking facility because of the sheer number of private vehicles. This reflects the aspirational rise of this once-overlooked town."
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's presence, despite his pressing commitments in Delhi, was hailed by Dr. Jitendra Singh as a gesture of Centre-State cooperation. "His presence here demonstrates the shared commitment of the state and Centre to jointly develop Jammu & Kashmir under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Dr. Jitendra Singh said.
The Minister highlighted that the new parking facility is just one among several transformative projects that have changed Kathua's landscape in the last decade. From running Vande Bharat trains to upgrading the Kathua railway station, establishing three medical colleges in the constituency, launching a Biotech Park, and building an Engineering and Homeopathy college, the region has witnessed a sweeping change in public infrastructure.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that connectivity projects like the Express Corridor, which will soon enable direct travel to Delhi in five hours, are set to further boost mobility and economic prospects for the region. "When that happens, you'll realize just how dramatically the picture has changed," he said.
Beyond infrastructure, Dr. Jitendra Singh touched upon social challenges such as illegal mining and drug abuse, which he said are now being firmly addressed. "Kathua's name should no longer be linked with these issues. Let's make it an example of a model town," he urged, calling for a united fight involving civil society, administration, and parents to protect the youth from the scourge of drugs.
The inauguration ceremony also spotlighted completed landmark projects like the bridge at Kediyan-Gandyal, Maharaja Gulab Singh's grand statue at the entrance to Jammu & Kashmir, and the setting up of a large stadium with BCCI support. Dr. Jitendra Singh acknowledged the role of Corporate Social Responsibility in developing facilities like Birla Park, which he invited the Chief Minister to visit during his morning walks.
While celebrating the region's development, the Union Minister reiterated the importance of sustaining it through civic responsibility and future planning. "If our youth fall prey to addiction, who will drive the cars or sit in the Vande Bharat train? Who will serve their parents or benefit from these amenities?" he asked.
As Dr. Jitendra Singh noted in his closing remarks, "Kathua is not just a town; it is a source of inspiration for the BJP and a living tribute to the sacrifices of national heroes like Syama Prasad Mukherjee."
With the new parking complex operational and more development in the pipeline, today's inauguration stands as a testament to the town's growing role in the region's socio-economic revival.
