Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department (HUDD), Mandeep Kaur, today chaired a high-level meeting at the Spiritual Growth Center, Katra to review the ongoing preparations and proposals under the Katra Master Plan.
The review focused on extension of the local area, infrastructure development and incorporating public feedback into the planning framework. DDC Chairman Reasi Saraf Singh Nag, MLA Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Baldev Raj Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Reasi Nidhi Malik, Director Local Bodies, Director SPA Delhi and ADDC Reasi, public representative and officers were present in the meeting.
During the meeting, a detailed presentation was given on the proposed expansion of the Master Plan area. It was informed that 33 villages have been included in the extended Master Plan to ensure holistic, planned and sustainable growth of Katra in the coming years.
The Commissioner Secretary also reviewed the progress on key projects including the Inter Modal Station (IMS) and waste management facilities. She emphasized strict inter-departmental coordination for effective and timely execution of development works.
She directed the concerned officers to resolve all financial and administrative bottlenecks at the earliest to facilitate swift commencement of these critical development works. Emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness, Mandeep Kaur directed the officers to inspect land near the railway station for disaster management planning.
She also instructed for formulation of a comprehensive Green Action Plan to promote environmental sustainability in Katra. The Commissioner Secretary directed the Katra Development Authority (KDA) to hold regular public meetings to address community concerns, gather feedback and expedite the resolution of development-related issues.
She also instructed the officers to prepare a ten-year Master Plan roadmap to guide Katra’s long-term and future-ready development. Reaffirming the government’s commitment, she said the administration is dedicated to transform Katra into a well-planned, resilient and modern urban center with enhanced facilities for the residents, pilgrims and tourists.
Mandeep Kaur further informed that the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) Delhi has been nominated for review and updation of the Katra Master Plan. She said that the latest and most advanced planning technologies will be used to ensure scientific, accurate and future-oriented development for the holy town.
She added that the green and red marked zones in the existing plan would be thoroughly reviewed and updated as per ground realities. The actual width of major and minor roads will be properly mapped for clarity in future planning and land required for proposed projects will be clearly earmarked to streamline the developmental processes.
Emphasizing inclusive and people-centric planning, she said the expectations and aspirations of local residents will be given due importance while preparing the revised Master Plan. She also informed that the water supply project in Katra will begin soon. The Commissioner Secretary added that a notified email has been shared for the public to submit their valuable suggestions for development of Katra.