Er Rashid meets Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

New Delhi, Feb 14: Member of Parliament (MP) Er Rashid, during his two-day parole, met Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways in the Parliament Chamber yesterday, a press release said.

The meeting focused on key infrastructure demands crucial for the development of north Kashmir. During the discussion, Er Rashid strongly advocated for the construction of the Karnah, Machil, and Gurez Tunnels, stressing their critical importance as these regions remain cut off from the rest of the country for nearly six months every year due to heavy snowfall.

He emphasised that these tunnels would provide all-weather connectivity, improving the socio-economic conditions of the people and strengthening national integration.

The MP highlighted the need for Lolab-Bandipora road connectivity, linking the Lolab Valley with Bandipora district, as well as the Takipora Lolab-Sopore road, which would enhance regional connectivity and facilitate better trade and transport.

Responding to these demands, Minister Nitin Gadkari confirmed that the process for the Karnah Tunnel has already begun and assured that the other proposed tunnels and inter-district road networks would be taken up with the Defence Ministry for further consideration, the press release added.

Er Rashid demanded Rs 200 crore for the upgradation of National Highway roads and other road infrastructure in North Kashmir, emphasising the urgent need to modernize road connectivity in the region. Minister Nitin Gadkari assured full support for the proposed projects, reiterating the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in remote areas.