Union Minister for Road, Transport and National Highways, Nitin Gadkari, met with Karan Singh, the former Sadr-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir, to discuss significant road projects in the Union Territory. The meeting, held at Singh’s residence, was aimed at reviewing the progress and strategic importance of ongoing infrastructure developments in the region.
According to a statement from the J-K Dharmarth Trust, chaired by Singh, the discussions centred around the enhancement of road and national highway projects. Gadkari provided updates on key initiatives, including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the Delhi-Katra Expressway, and the Zojila Tunnel Project. These projects are crucial for improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and enhancing safety for commuters. Gadkari reiterated the Central government’s commitment to accelerating the completion of these projects, highlighting their potential to significantly improve the transportation network in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised the government’s vision of a well-connected and prosperous Union Territory, underlining the strategic importance of robust infrastructure in driving economic growth. Karan Singh expressed his support for the initiatives, noting the multiple benefits they would bring to the local population. He highlighted the increased accessibility to remote areas, the promotion of tourism, and the creation of job opportunities as key advantages. Singh stressed the critical role of infrastructure development in the socio-economic advancement of the region.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway project aims to facilitate smoother travel between the two key cities, while the Delhi-Katra Expressway is set to enhance connectivity between the national capital and the pilgrimage city. The Zojila Tunnel Project, one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the region, will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil, and Leh, significantly improving accessibility and boosting the local economy. These projects are part of a broader strategy to enhance the infrastructure landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, fostering regional integration and economic development. The meeting between Gadkari and Singh underscores the government’s focus on strategic infrastructure initiatives to drive growth and prosperity in the Union Territory. As these projects progress, they are expected to transform the region’s connectivity and economic prospects, laying the foundation for a more integrated and developed Jammu and Kashmir.
