Examiner Bureau | Anantnag:
In a significant boost to environmental restoration efforts in South Kashmir, the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies (DULB), Kashmir, has approved a ₹4.50 crore project for the development of green spaces along the River Jhelum and the Sherbagh Stream within the jurisdiction of Municipal Council Anantnag.
The development comes shortly after the issue was highlighted by Kashmir Examiner through a report by journalist Irfan Khan, prompting swift administrative action.
According to an official order dated April 24, 2026 (Order No. DULB/Plg/370 of 2026), the project has been sanctioned under Hon’ble NGT Application No. 606/2018. The initiative aims to transform several locations along the two water bodies into well-maintained green zones, addressing both environmental degradation and urban aesthetics.
The approval is subject to strict compliance with 18 conditions. The executing agency, Municipal Council Anantnag, has been directed to complete the project within the sanctioned cost without any overruns, adhere to General Financial Rules (GFR-2017), and follow all codal procedures. Authorities have also mandated proper tendering processes and comprehensive documentation, including video and photographic records at all stages of execution. Any change in project location will require prior approval.
The move has been widely welcomed by local stakeholders. The Sherbagh Committee, Anantnag, termed the approval a long-pending demand of residents and expressed optimism that the project would enhance the visual appeal of the area while addressing persistent flooding and sanitation concerns.
Social activist Bashir Ahmed Najar also lauded the development and credited Peerzada Mohammed Syed for facilitating timely intervention that helped expedite the approval process.
“This project had been delayed due to procedural bottlenecks. The timely efforts ensured movement at the administrative level, and we now expect early execution,” Najar said.
The DULB has directed senior officials, including the Superintendent Engineer of R&B Circle Anantnag and the Chief Executive Officer of Municipal Council Anantnag, to ensure strict adherence to guidelines and timely implementation of the project.
