Anantnag-Bijbehara-Mattan Draft Master Plan under public scrutiny

Anantnag, Dec 6: Residents of Anantnag, Bijbehara and Mattan on Saturday sought clarification and raised concerns about the proposed Anantnag-Bijbehara-Mattan Master Plan 2044 during an awareness session held as part of the ongoing public-review process.

Officials from the Town Planning Department, Urban Local Bodies and the municipal councils of the three towns briefed participants on the draft master plan that has been opened for public comments for 60 days.

Traders, civil society members and lawyers also took part in the discussion and submitted suggestions.

Mohsin Malik, the consultancy in charge at the Institute for Spatial Planning and Environment Research (ISPER), which prepared the draft under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), gave an overview of the proposal.

He said the plan was “holistic” and addressed key urban services, including sewerage, drainage and public utilities such as stadiums and laboratory blocks.

“The draft master plan envisages a comprehensive approach to urban development, focusing on zoning regulations, infrastructure priorities, environmental safeguards, preserving water bodies, restoration of springs, and development guidelines,” Malik said.

He said the draft proposes separate commercial, residential, industrial and green zones with a focus on decongesting the town.

" Improving sewerage, drainage, seepage and disposal of solid waste is the key aspect of the master plan," Malik said.

Officials urged residents to submit feedback within the stipulated period before the plan is finalised.

Suggestions may also be emailed to the deputy commissioner’s office, said Asadullah, Secretary, Anantnag Municipal Council.

Executive Officer, Shopian Municipal Committee, Suhail Malik, who has previously served in Anantnag, said the plan seeks to address unregulated urban sprawl, traffic congestion and the reduction of open spaces. “The plan prioritises transport and public utilities while addressing the unique needs of the densely populated Anantnag, Bijbehara and Mattan,” he said.

Officials said the master plan would be implemented in phases across the three towns, with completion targeted for 2044.

The chairman of the Traders and Manufacturers Association called for designated locations for bus, minibus, cabs, and auto rickshaw services, suggesting that unused open land at the old Mattan bus stand, currently functioning as a vendors’ market, could be used for a Sumo stand.

Social activist Waseem Jan Mir and Advocate Muzamil said the draft includes several components intended to make the historic town more organised and visually attractive while accommodating modern requirements. They urged residents to participate in the consultation process to further improve the plan.

“Public participation is key to ensuring a master plan that reflects local needs,” they said.