In a significant development, the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday announced the allocation of Rs. 2093.92 crore for widening and strengthening various National Highway projects in Jammu & Kashmir.
In a post on X, Nitin Gadkari said, in Jammu & Kashmir, an allocation of Rs. 1404.94 crore has been approved for the Widening and Strengthening project of the Rafiabad – Kupwara – Chowkibal – Tangdhar – Chamkot section of National Highway-701.
He 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 2-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, he said.
The Minister said that an allocation of Rs. 126.58 crore has been 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 said.
Gadkari said it will ensure easy access for individuals with disabilities and senior citizens to visit the temple, reducing travel time form 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, he added.
The Minister said, an allocation of Rs. 562.40 crore has been approved for the Upgradation and Strengthening project of the Nashri- Chenani section of National Highway-244. Spanning 39.10 Km in districts Udhampur & Ramban, this initiative operates on the EPC mode under National Highway.
He said, 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.
In November 2023, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari had said that the Ministry had successfully completed the construction of the Ram Ban Viaduct, a remarkable feat spanning a length of 1.08 kilometers with 26 spans. The project, built at a cost of ₹328 crores, is situated on the Udhampur-Ramban section of National Highway-44.”
“This extraordinary viaduct is composed of 26 spans and employs a combination of concrete and steel girders in its structural design,” he said.
