Jammu Master Plan to triple its coverage area by 2032, targets economic resilience, infrastructure development

Fostering industrial growth, Jammu plans to create jobs, boost economy by 2032

JAMMU: The Jammu Master Plan 2032 represents a significant milestone in the urban development trajectory of the region, marking the third major planning initiative since the introduction of the first Jammu Master Plan (1974-94).
This revised plan promises to encompass a broader geographical area, extending its ambit to parts of Jammu and Samba districts. With its extensive coverage and ambitious objectives, the plan aims to address the challenges posed by population growth, urban sprawl, and economic diversification while fostering sustainable development.
One of the standout features of the revised master plan is the expansion of its jurisdiction. The proposed coverage area is set to increase from 305 square kilometers to 777.84 square kilometers, nearly tripling its scope.
This includes not only the entire Jammu Municipal Corporation but also the Municipal Committees of Ghou-Manhasan, Bishnah, Bari Brahmana, and Vijaypur, along with several revenue villages. Specifically, the revised plan incorporates 351 revenue villages, with 262 from Jammu district and the remaining 89 from Samba district.
This expansion reflects the need to accommodate the projected population growth and urban sprawl anticipated by 2032. Many villages in Jammu and Samba districts are already experiencing the effects of urbanization due to their proximity to Jammu city.
To address these realities, the plan proposes extending the urban limits to contiguous areas, ensuring a cohesive approach to managing the region’s development.
The revised plan lays out a comprehensive vision for land use, emphasizing economic diversification and infrastructure development. It allocates 44.52 square kilometers (5.72% of the proposed area) for commercial purposes and 14.38 square kilometers (1.84%) for industrial use.
This strategic allocation underscores the plan’s focus on fostering the industrial sector as a critical driver of economic growth. By prioritizing investment in this sector, the plan aims to generate significant employment opportunities and bolster the region’s economic base.
While the Jammu Master Plan 2032 presents a well-rounded vision, some discrepancies have emerged regarding road width standards for new colonies. Sources indicate a divergence in guidelines between the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and the Jammu Development Authority (JDA).
The JMC has proposed a road width of 30 feet, while the JDA recommends 40 feet. This inconsistency has raised questions about the criteria for determining road widths, with experts emphasizing the need for flexibility based on specific requirements.
Vikas Mahajan, Assistant Town Planner at the office of the Senior Town Planner in Jammu, addressed this issue, stating,"No uniform yardstick can be applied for road widths across colonies. Road dimensions should be determined by the unique needs and requirements of each area."
As per the provisions of Rule 6(ii) of the J&K Development Authority Rules, 1976, the draft of the revised master plan was released for public scrutiny, inviting objections and suggestions until December 14, 2024. However, the deadline has passed without final approval.
In response, the Town Planning Department, in collaboration with the JMC and JDA, is planning to convene a meeting in January 2025 to finalize and release the blueprint of the Jammu Master Plan 2032.
The Jammu Master Plan 2032 aspires to balance urban expansion with sustainable development. By integrating new areas into its fold, it seeks to create a robust framework for accommodating population growth and economic activity. The focus on industrial development is particularly noteworthy, as it aligns with the broader goal of enhancing the region’s employability and economic resilience.
Beyond infrastructure and economic priorities, the plan also addresses the socio-environmental challenges of urbanization. By strategically allocating land use and planning for necessary infrastructure, the master plan sets the stage for a vibrant, well-connected, and economically prosperous Jammu by 2032.
The Jammu Master Plan 2032 is not merely a roadmap for urban growth but a transformative vision that seeks to redefine the region's future. Its successful implementation hinges on resolving existing discrepancies, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and ensuring that public feedback shapes its final contours.

Updated On 1/5/2025 2:19:14 AM