Early Times Report
JAMMU, Apr 30: Marking a major leap toward environmental sustainability and campus infrastructure enhancement, the University of Jammu today laid the Foundation Stone for a state-of-the-art Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) on its campus.
The ceremony was graced by Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu, who attended as the Chief Guest, and Ms. Sukhleen Kour, Director Planning, Higher Education Department, as the Guest of Honour. The Bhumi Pujan and foundation stone-laying were jointly performed by Prof. Rohmetra, Ms. Kour, Prof. Sangita Gupta, Dean Planning and Development, and Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar, University of Jammu.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, expressed her appreciation to the Higher Education Department for acceding to the University's request. "Sewage treatment is not just a structural necessity but an environmental imperative. This project is part of a holistically envisioned approach towards sustainability at the University," she remarked.
Congratulating Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai for his visionary leadership, she emphasized that the tangible infrastructure being developed will yield intangible benefits, particularly for the University stakeholders who will directly benefit from improved waste management practices. "This initiative is not merely a construction project; it is a reflection of the University's commitment to green practices, sustainable growth, and environmental responsibility," she added.
Prof. Rohmetra also acknowledged the significant contribution of the outgoing Dean Planning and Development Prof Meena Sharma during whose tenure the project was originally conceived
Ms. Sukhleen Kour, Director Planning, Higher Education Department, commended the University for taking this important step. "The project is being funded by the Higher Education Department with an allocation of approximately Rs. 7 crore. We are committed to ensuring its timely completion and will continue to support such visionary efforts for sustainable campus development," she stated. She further emphasized that the STP is not merely about regulatory compliance, but a necessity for public health, resource optimization, and academic enrichment.
In her welcome address, Prof. Sangita Gupta, Dean Planning and Development, emphasized that the STP is in perfect alignment with the University's broader vision of fostering a green, self-reliant, and resource-efficient campus. She appreciated the visionary leadership of the dynamic Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umesh Rai, whose consistent efforts have led to an infrastructure boom in the University. It is under his stewardship that the University is scaling new heights, most recently reflected in his leadership during the University's successful pursuit of an A++ accreditation by NAAC. She also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders particularly development wing in bringing the project to fruition
A technical overview of the project was presented by Dr. Muzamil from NIT Srinagar, who carried out the technical vetting. The STP will employ advanced Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) technology with a treatment capacity of 500 kilolitres per day (KLD), capable of removing over 85% of biological waste. The treated water will be reused for irrigation and horticulture on the campus, reducing dependency on fresh water and minimizing environmental discharge. Dr. Muzamil also offered complimentary consultation support for the project.
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