J&K allocated Rs 2093.92 Cr for widening, strengthening NH projects: Nitin Gadkari

Jammu, Mar 8: Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari Friday announced that Rs 2093.92 Cr were allocated for widening and strengthening various National Highway projects in Jammu and Kashmir.

He stated this through a string of posts on ‘X’ with a breakup of sanctioned amounts for different projects in Kashmir and Jammu regions.

“In Jammu & Kashmir, an allocation of Rs 1404.94 Cr has been approved for the widening and strengthening project of the Rafiabad-Kupwara-Chowkibal-Tangdhar-Chamkot section of National Highway-701,” he posted.

About this project, Gadkari said, “This initiative, executed under Project Beacon in Baramulla & Kupwara districts on EPC Mode under Package I, aims to transform the 51 km route into two lanes with paved shoulder. Critical for logistics in the region, this strategic route connecting Baramulla and Kupwara districts plays a pivotal role and is integral to the development of the tourism sector in North Kashmir near the International Border.”

In another post, Gadkari said that an allocation of Rs 126.58 Cr was approved for the development, operation and maintenance of a ropeway from SDA Parking (Near Zabarwan Park) to Shankaracharya temple.

“Spanning 1.05 km in Srinagar district, this initiative operates on the Hybrid Annuity Mode, utilizing MonoCable Detachable Gondola (MDG) Technology with a capacity to transport 700 PPHPD. This project is designed to offer a panoramic view of Srinagar city and Dal lake, providing a safe and convenient transportation means,” he wrote.

“It ensures easy access for individuals with disabilities and senior citizens to visit the temple, reducing travel time from approximately 30 minutes to about 5 minutes. Additionally, it serves as an eco-friendly mode for transport, creates employment opportunities for the local populace, and brings economic benefits to the region by enhancing tourism,” the minister added.

He said that an allocation of Rs 562.40 Cr was approved for the upgradation and strengthening project of the Nashri-Chenani section of National Highway-244.

Spanning 39.10 km in districts Udhampur and Ramban, this initiative operates on the EPC mode under National Highway (O).

“With Patnitop being a prominent tourist spot, the road’s enhancement is poised to offer improved connectivity to Patnitop, thereby fostering the economic development of the region,” Gadkari said.