Revival of Ujh Multipurpose Project Promises Economic Transformation in Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, India Aug 30, 2026 ALN: The revival of the long-delayed Ujh Multipurpose Project in Kathua district has raised hopes of an economic transformation in the region, with the ambitious project expected to expand irrigation, generate hydropower, and strengthen water availability for households and industry. This initiative is particularly crucial for Jammu and Kashmir, a region that has faced various developmental challenges over the years, including limited infrastructure and access to essential resources.

The Ujh Multipurpose Project is strategically located on the Ujh river, a significant tributary of the Ravi river, which itself plays a vital role in the hydrology of the region. The project envisions the construction of a 380-feet-high concrete-faced rockfill dam, along with a powerhouse that is anticipated to generate between 186 MW and 212 MW of electricity. Such a power output could significantly contribute to the energy needs of the region, which has historically struggled with power shortages and inadequate infrastructure.

Declared a national project in 2008, the Ujh Multipurpose Project faced numerous delays and bureaucratic hurdles that stalled its progress for over a decade. The revival of the project has now brought renewed attention to its potential to benefit communities not only in Kathua and Samba districts of Jammu and Kashmir but also in the neighbouring Punjab districts of Pathankot and Gurdaspur. This cross-border impact highlights the interconnected nature of water resources and economic development in the region.

“It has been discussed for years, and people here have been waiting to see the project move forward. If completed as planned, it could bring major changes to the area,” said Akshay Kumar, a resident of Kathua. His sentiments reflect the broader anticipation among locals who have long awaited tangible improvements in their livelihoods and infrastructure.

The project is designed to provide irrigation to nearly 90,000 hectares of agricultural land across Kathua and Samba in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Pathankot and Gurdaspur in Punjab. For farmers in the region, the availability of reliable irrigation water could significantly reduce their dependence on rainfall, which is often erratic and insufficient for consistent agricultural production. This reliability is particularly important in a region where agriculture is a primary source of livelihood for many households.

“The project was revived due to the efforts of Union Minister Jitendra Singh. Earlier, water was not reaching the tail-end areas, but with the completion of this project, many villages in the tail-end areas of Kathua and Samba districts will receive irrigation water,” MLA Samba Surjeet Singh Slathia told local media. His remarks underscore the political will behind the project and the expectation that it will bring much-needed relief to underserved communities.

Officials have indicated that the project would mark a significant milestone for the farming community in the two districts. Improved irrigation could lead to increased agricultural productivity, allowing farmers to cultivate more land and potentially diversify their crops, which could enhance food security and economic stability in the region.

In addition to agricultural benefits, the Ujh Multipurpose Project is set to supply drinking water to Kathua district and provide water for industrial use. This could catalyze new investments and job creation in the region, contributing to a more robust local economy. The phased approach to the project’s implementation, which includes construction-related activities and land acquisition, has been designed to ensure that progress is made efficiently and effectively.

Beyond its immediate economic implications, locals believe that the Ujh Multipurpose Project could also have a broader impact on tourism, transport, hospitality, and other sectors. The creation of a reservoir and associated infrastructure could attract visitors and businesses, fostering a more diverse economic landscape in the region.

The project also has a significant strategic dimension because of its location near the international border. Backed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ujh Multipurpose Project is expected to help regulate water flows more effectively and strengthen surveillance and management along vulnerable stretches of the riverbed that could otherwise be exploited as infiltration routes. This strategic aspect is particularly relevant in the context of regional security and resource management.

Furthermore, the project is expected to enhance India’s utilization of the waters of the eastern rivers allocated to it under the Indus Waters Treaty. Currently, part of the Ujh’s flow crosses the international border without being fully utilized on the Indian side. By harnessing a greater share of this water for irrigation, drinking water, industry, and power generation, the project could improve India’s water resource management and contribute to national interests.

In conclusion, the revival of the Ujh Multipurpose Project represents a pivotal opportunity for economic growth and development in Jammu and Kashmir. Its successful implementation could lead to improved agricultural productivity, enhanced water availability for households and industries, and even foster tourism and other sectors. As the project progresses, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on local communities, the environment, and regional stability, ensuring that the benefits are equitably distributed and sustainable for future generations.