
In Jammu and Kashmir, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and Jammu Smart City Limited are preparing for the Swachh Tawi Mahotsav, a major celebration of local heritage and environmental care. An Akashvani Jammu correspondent reports that, organized by the Housing and Urban Development Department, J&K, the event will be held at the 4th Tawi Bridge to mark Baisakhi. The Mahotsav will be a three-day event, starting on April 14 and ending on April 16. Organized in coordination with the Departments of Tourism and Information, the festival will take place on the left bank of the Tawi riverfront, which will be fully open to the public. The festival aims to highlight JMC's ongoing efforts to make Jammu a cleaner and more culturally active city under the Swachh Bharat Mission Urban 2.0. The festival offers a variety of activities for the public, including the Tawi Aarti and boating on the riverfront. To make it a family-friendly event for Baisakhi, JMC is planning to organize a traditional Mela (fair), a Dangal (wrestling match), and a Food Festival. There will also be celebrity performances, a laser show, cultural programs, and fun rides for children, making the riverfront a main attraction during the mela. Commissioner of JMC, Dr. Devansh Yadav said that the Mahotsav is a way to celebrate local traditions while committing to keep the Tawi River clean for the future. The event includes the Dangal, food stalls with authentic Dogri cuisine, and handloom exhibits. Families can use the dedicated play areas while supporting efforts to keep the "Surya Putri Tawi" clean. A new feature this year is the introduction of professional boating services using motorboats and rafts. While entry to the festival and cultural shows is free, boating will cost Rs. 50 for children and Rs. 100 for adults. This is a trial run before a final report from the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS) Goa, which would help set up permanent water sports in the coming months. JMC has increased fines for littering to keep the riverfront clean, balancing the celebration with strict urban maintenance. JMC invites everyone in Jammu to join the festival and help make the city cleaner and more beautiful.