Kathua’s Transformation In Recent Years Marked By Rise In Aspiration: Dr Jitendra

KATHUA, Apr 19 : In a significant push for urban infrastructure, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today inaugurated the first-ever Multi-level Parking Complex in the heart of Kathua town, along with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah ,marking a milestone in the region’s transformation from a relatively lesser developed town to a modern urban hub.
Addressing a packed gathering under the sweltering sun, Dr. Jitendra Singh described the inauguration as a symbol of Kathua’s rapid urban evolution, underscoring how a town once unfamiliar with personal vehicles now demands structured car parking solutions. “There was a time when only three cars were visible in the entire city — one each belonging to the DC, SP, and Executive Engineer,” he recalled. “Today, we are inaugurating a full-fledged parking facility because of the sheer number of private vehicles. This transformation also reflects the aspirational rise in recent years of this once-overlooked town.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s presence on the occasion, was hailed by Dr. Jitendra Singh who hoped for closer Centre-UT cooperation. “His presence here should indicate the shared commitment of the Centre and UT to jointly develop Jammu & Kashmir under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said.
The Minister highlighted that the new parking facility is just one among several transformative projects that have changed Kathua’s landscape in the last decade. From running Vande Bharat trains to upgrading the Kathua railway station, establishing three medical colleges in the constituency, launching a Biotech Park, and building an Engineering and Homeopathy college, the region has witnessed a sweeping change in public infrastructure.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that connectivity projects like the Express Corridor, which will soon enable direct travel to Delhi in five hours, are set to further boost mobility and economic prospects for the region. “When that happens, you’ll realize just how dramatically the picture has changed,” he said.
Beyond infrastructure, Dr. Jitendra Singh touched upon social challenges such as illegal mining and drug abuse, which he said are now being firmly addressed. “Kathua’s name should no longer be linked with these issues. Let’s make it an example of a model town,” he urged, calling for a united fight involving civil society, administration, and parents to protect the youth from the scourge of drugs.
The inauguration ceremony also spotlighted completed landmark projects like the bridge at Kediyan-Gandyal, Maharaja Gulab Singh’s grand statue at the entrance to Jammu & Kashmir, and the setting up of a large stadium at HiraNagar with BCCI support.
Dr. Jitendra Singh acknowledged the role of Corporate Social Responsibility in developing facilities like Birla Park, which he invited the Chief Minister to visit during his morning walks.
While celebrating the region’s development, the Union Minister reiterated the importance of sustaining it through civic responsibility and future planning. “If our youth fall prey to addiction, who will drive the cars or sit in the Vande Bharat train? Who will serve their parents or benefit from these amenities?” he asked.
As Dr. Jitendra Singh noted in his closing remarks, “Kathua is not just a town; it is a source of inspiration for the BJP and a living tribute to the sacrifices of national heroes like Syama Prasad Mukherjee.”
With the new parking complex operational and more development in the pipeline, today’s inauguration stands as a testament to the town’s growing role in the region’s socio-economic revival.

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