17th UMI Conference: Jammu, Srinagar bag 'Award of Excellence in Urban Transport'

Jammu: Jammu and Srinagar's Smart City projects have received distinguished 'Award of Excellence in Urban Transport' accolades at the 17th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Expo, held in Gujarat.
Jammu smart city’s project, centered on e-autos and e-rickshaws, was awarded in the category of ‘City with Most Innovative Financing Mechanism.’ Presented by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs ML Khattar, the award acknowledges Jammu Smart City Limited's (JSCL) role in transforming public transport through accessible, economical, and environmentally friendly options.
Dr. Devansh Yadav, CEO of JSCL, received the award. He highlighted that the initiative, as part of the Jammu Smart City Project, not only reduces reliance on traditional fuels but also empowers around 800 low-income families through sustainable job creation.
The scheme, supported by a financing model involving substantial subsidies through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), has notably reduced the cost of these e-autos and e-rickshaws for beneficiaries by 25-30%, making them accessible to more individuals. Dr. Yadav emphasized that the project’s core objectives include promoting pollution-free transportation, providing affordable last-mile connectivity, and supporting livelihoods for economically vulnerable families. This e-mobility scheme has created new opportunities for local drivers and positioned Jammu as a pioneer in eco-friendly transport solutions in the region.
In a parallel success, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) received the 'Award of Excellence in Urban Transport' under the ‘Best Non-Motorized Transport System’ category. This recognition celebrates SSCL's commitment to creating a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly cityscape that prioritizes sustainable, low-impact transportation options. CEO Dr. Owais Ahmed received the award on behalf of SSCL at the event in Ahmedabad.
Srinagar’s comprehensive approach has transformed over 100 kilometers of main roadways into zones that prioritize non-motorized transport, incorporating wide, dedicated lanes for walking and cycling, improved lighting, and enhanced public amenities. These upgrades, made to major thoroughfares like Maulana Azad Road and Residency Road, have revitalized public spaces such as Srinagar Square (Lal Chowk) and the Jhelum Riverfront with vibrant plazas, cafes, promenades, and increased green cover.
Additionally, SSCL's Public Bicycle System, featuring 1,000 bicycles and 200 electric bikes across 180 stations, has encouraged sustainable transport options for both residents and visitors. This initiative has contributed to a noticeable increase in foot traffic and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, creating a more livable city environment.