Hardeep Jamwal, JNM Journalist, Jammu
Jammu city is set to receive a new and unique tourism attraction. The ‘Waste-to-Wonder’ park, currently being developed along the banks of the Tawi River in Bhagwati Nagar, is scheduled to open to the public and tourists on July 10. The park’s standout feature is that replicas of famous historical and cultural landmarks from India and abroad have been crafted entirely from scrap and waste materials.
Efforts are underway to have the park—developed by Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL) across approximately 40 kanals of land—inaugurated by either Chief Minister Omar Abdullah or Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. According to officials, the construction of all major installations within the park is complete, and about 90 percent of the tiling work is finished; the remaining work is expected to be completed within the next ten days.
A Glimpse of World-Famous Landmarks
At the ‘Waste-to-Wonder’ park, tourists will be able to view replicas of several world-famous landmarks in a single location. Seven major international installations have been set up, including Japan’s Todai-ji Temple, Egypt’s Sphinx, Italy’s Colosseum, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, the USA’s White House, France’s Eiffel Tower, and Bhutan’s Taktsang Monastery.
Additionally, replicas of five iconic Indian landmarks—Hawa Mahal, the Statue of Unity, Jantar Mantar, the Gateway of India, and the Taj Mahal—have been created within the park. To promote local identity, impressive structures representing the Akhnoor Fort and the Chenab Valley Bridge will also be part of the park.
Artificial Lake: A Special Attraction for Children
A small artificial lake, spanning approximately three kanals, is being developed to provide recreation for children and families. Equipped with water-based activities, this lake is set to become a major hub for picnics and leisure. Here, children will have the opportunity to enjoy boating and other water-based activities in a safe environment.
Amphitheatre, Walkways, and Light and Sound Show
Modern amenities, including an amphitheatre and beautiful walkways, are being rapidly constructed within the park. Additionally, a light and sound show is being planned to attract tourists, which will further enhance the park’s appeal during the evening hours.
Excellent Food and Beverage Facilities
Cafeterias and fast-food outlets are being set up within the park complex for the convenience of visitors. Guests will be able to enjoy the park—at a very affordable entry fee—while also availing themselves of these food and beverage facilities.
Construction Work to be Completed on Schedule: Officials
Vivek Chopra, AEE at JSCL, stated that the target is to open the park to the public by July 10. He mentioned that all major construction work is in the final stages, and the remaining tasks will be completed within the next few days. A final decision regarding the date and time of the inauguration ceremony will be taken soon.
The opening of the ‘Waste-to-Wonder’ park is expected to give a new boost to tourism activities in Jammu. This park is set to become a major attraction not only for locals but also for tourists visiting from across the country and abroad.
