- Dal Lake Weed Processing Unit and climate initiatives take center stage
- J&K signs MoU to turn Srinagar into a zero-landfill city by 2030
JAMMU, Mar 3: In a significant development, Srinagar Smart City Limited has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as part of the CITIIS 2.0 program to implement integrated waste management systems. This initiative includes smart collection networks and AI-enhanced recycling hubs, aiming to convert Srinagar into a zero-landfill city by 2030.
The MoU was finalized during the 12th Regional 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific, currently taking place in Rajasthan from March 3 to 5, 2025.
In addition, the Union Territory government also signed a state-level agreement to establish a Climate Observatory, marking it as the first institution of its kind in North India. This observatory will monitor climate variables, evaluate risks, and devise adaptive strategies for vulnerable sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and water resources.
The event serves as a leading platform for promoting sustainable development and resource efficiency, showcasing J&K’s innovative initiatives in waste management and circular economy practices, thereby cementing its commitment to environmental stewardship.
The Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) presented Jammu & Kashmir’s pioneering Dal Lake Weed Processing Unit at the forum, attracting widespread attention from policymakers, technocrats, and sustainability experts. This project converts invasive aquatic weeds into organic manure and biogas, exemplifying the UT’s innovative approach to addressing ecological challenges while fostering circular economy principles.
Dignitaries including policymakers, thinkers, researchers, and planners from across the country visited the J&K stall, praising the initiative of transforming lake waste into valuable resources through sustainable waste management practices.
The J&K delegation, led by senior officials from the Housing and Urban Development Department, participated in extensive knowledge-sharing sessions with representatives from other states and Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Key topics of discussion included “Waste-to-Wonder Technologies,” “Waste-to-Energy Innovations,” and “Community-Led Circular Economy Models.”
The forum provided a rich exchange of ideas, particularly in decentralizing waste management and empowering local communities, allowing for the exploration of best practices and modern technologies that could potentially be replicated in Jammu & Kashmir.
Jammu & Kashmir’s participation in the forum underscores its steadfast commitment to sustainable urban development and the promotion of circular economy principles, aligning with the broader goal of environmental conservation and resource efficiency.
Notably, CITIIS 2.0 is a flagship initiative focused on integrated waste management and climate action. The Ministry of Housing Affairs, Government of India, invited proposals for integrated waste management in smart cities, with 18 proposals valued at Rs. 1800 Cr being shortlisted to benefit 18 cities across 14 states.
The 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum will continue in the coming days, featuring expert discussions, policy dialogues, and collaborative initiatives aimed at shaping the future of sustainable urban development and circularity in the country.
