The administration has chalked out a comprehensive modernisation plan for Jhelum river involving time-bound execution of developmental works and setting up of facilities aimed at restoring the grandeur of the historic river.
The plan involves refurbishment and modernization ofhouseboats in the river and setting up of facilities along the banks thereofwhich will not just enhance the financial opportunities for the owners ofhouseboats but also facilitate stakeholdership in the upkeep of the river.
Deputy Commissioner Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary who wasspeaking in a meeting here said the refurbishment of houseboats in Jhelum is apart of the larger plan aimed at restoring the grandeur of the historic river.
He said the plan involves modernization of houseboats whichare in good condition. He said that dilapidated houseboats will be dismantledand removed and their owners compensated with plots of land.
The DC said the larger modernisation plan involvesbeautification and establishment of various kinds of facilities along the banksof Jhelum river adding the facilities to be set up therein include libraries,kiosks, parks and aesthetic infrastructure.
The houseboat owners will be the first amongst thebeneficiaries of these facilities. Self help groups of these owners will runthe business kiosks to be set up along the banks.
Dr Shahid said the ideais to make the people direct stakeholders in the development and upkeep of thehistoric river while providing livelihood opportunities to the houseboatowners.
The latter will also be trained and equipped under SDRF andwill be the first line of defense at the time of eventualities.
The DC has also directed for ending all mining activities inthe river to prevent damages to its embankments. He has said only that miningwill be allowed in the river which is totally scientific.
The plan also includes flood protection works on the leftbank of the river which will be taken up soon.