JAMMU: The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has been actively implementing multiple projects under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) with the objective of reducing pollution, improving air quality and transforming Jammu into a greener and cleaner city.
As part of the Green Jammu, Clean Jammu campaign, the Corporation undertook a massive plantation drive during the recent monsoon season, under which more than 60,000 saplings were planted across various parts of the city. Under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, School Children, Swachhta Ambassadors and Civil Society has adopted 7000 of these trees and tagged them with QR code. This innovative step will not only help track the growth and health of the trees but also encourage public involvement, as citizens will be able to scan and check details about the plantations in their area.
In addition to greening measures, JMC has launched a major initiative for construction of modern, end-to-end footpaths integrated with green corridors. These pedestrian pathways have been planned to provide a safe, accessible, and uninterrupted walking experience for citizens while simultaneously enhancing the city’s environmental profile. Each footpath has been equipped with soak pits to promote rainwater harvesting and water conservation, thereby ensuring that precious rainwater is absorbed into the ground rather than wasted.
The green corridors along these footpaths are lined with ornamental plants and shade trees, which will not only beautify the city but also act as natural dust and pollution filters, improving the overall air quality. With adequate shade and seating, these spaces are being envisioned as vibrant urban zones, where pedestrians can walk, relax, and connect with nature. Dr. Devansh described the initiative as a model of transformative pedestrian infrastructure aimed at merging functionality with sustainability.
Highlighting future plans, Dr. Yadav informed that under NCAP, several new sites are being identified for environmental development. Recently in a meeting chaired by Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, more than 20 locations were identified for creating green urban walkways in the year 2025–26.
A Committee has been constituted to oversee and monitor the implementation of these projects and to ensure adequate sapling supply for future plantation drives, while new nurseries are being developed in collaboration with the Urban Forestry Division Jammu.
Dr. Yadav reiterated JMC’s commitment to make Jammu city a pollution-free, environmentally sustainable urban centre. He stressed that community involvement is crucial for the success of these projects.
In this regard, the Corporation is actively engaging schools, colleges and local institutions to spread awareness about air pollution, the importance of tree plantation and sustainable living practices. Various outreach activities and campaigns are being organized under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to encourage citizens to participate in maintaining cleanliness and supporting JMC’s green initiatives.
Joint Commissioner (H&S) Abdul Satar added that the Corporation will be working at an accelerated pace in the coming months, focusing not only on plantation and footpath development but also on other allied measures such as improved solid waste management, dust control mechanisms and strengthening of green cover.
The Jammu Municipal Corporation envisions these initiatives as a step towards creating a healthier urban environment, where development and ecology move hand in hand, ultimately ensuring better quality of life for the residents of Jammu.