In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

JAMMU: The Jammu Smart City’s flagship Tawi Riverfront Development Project was highlighted at the National Workshop on R&D in Water as a significant example of science-driven urban infrastructure and flood resilient structure.

The project was presented by the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), Roorkee, as a model of how scientific hydrology, inter-agency coordination, and data-driven planning can be effectively translated into impactful urban infrastructure.

Jammu Smart City officials endorsed the presentation, stating that the Tawi Riverfront reflects successful integration of scientific inputs into urban planning, river management and flood mitigation strategies.

A key highlight of the presentation was the role of the promenade walls, which reportedly played a crucial role in safeguarding residents in the surrounding areas and protecting the warehouse which is an important economic hub of Jammu.

Officials from Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL), including Project Director Sunil Thusoo and Senior General Manager Rajes Abrol, highlighted that the riverfront project is not only an urban beautification initiative but also a major flood mitigation and ecological restoration intervention for Jammu. Officials stated that the Tawi Riverfront project was developed after detailed hydrological studies and technical vetting by NIH Roorkee and other central agencies.

These scientific inputs helped in strengthening flood management planning, river training works, embankment design, and overall urban development along the Tawi river corridor in Jammu.

The initiative has contributed to improved drainage efficiency, reduced flood impact in adjoining areas, interception of untreated wastewater into the river, and partial recharge of groundwater systems through ecological restoration of the river stretch. They stated that lessons from past flood events, including the 2014 flood scenario, were incorporated into the design to enhance resilience in vulnerable zones.

Officials noted that the recognition of the project at a national platform reflects Jammu Smart City’s approach of combining scientific validation, institutional collaboration, and urban planning to address long-standing challenges of devastation caused by flooding and degradation. 

 The workshop brought together over 500 stakeholders, including Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology Jitendra Singh, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, ISRO, Dr. V. Narayanan and senior officials from the Ministry of Jal Shakti.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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