Jammu and Kashmir is poised for a significant infrastructure overhaul, with plans to develop inter-modal stations, ropeways, and multi-modal logistics parks across the Union Territory. This ambitious development agenda aims to bolster connectivity, enhance tourism, and streamline trade, marking a pivotal step towards fostering sustainable and economically vibrant urban and rural landscapes. The initiatives promise to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
A comprehensive review of these critical infrastructure projects, spearheaded by the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), highlighted the urgency of their execution. Efforts are being prioritised to establish a robust framework for project implementation, ensuring swift progress. A key focus is the creation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) dedicated to the establishment of various ropeway projects at prominent tourist destinations, including the revered Shankaracharya Temple, signalling a commitment to enhancing visitor experience and regional accessibility. The planned Inter Modal Station at Katra stands as a cornerstone of this development, designed to cater to the approximately 2.5 crore pilgrims visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Holy Cave annually. This robust transport hub will feature an extensive bus terminal with 88 bays, parking facilities for around 500 vehicles, three helipads, and an integrated ropeway station. Complementing the transport infrastructure, a commercial zone with multi-floor spaces and five hotel towers will further enhance pilgrim convenience and stimulate local economic activity.
Another significant project is the Shankaracharya Temple Ropeway, a 1.05-kilometre stretch with an estimated cost of ₹109 crore. Utilising Mono-Cable Detachable Gondola (MDG) technology, this ropeway will boast a capacity of 700 Persons Per Hour Per Direction and a rapid travel time of approximately 5 minutes, connecting two stations with 15 cabins. With an estimated construction duration of two years, this project will significantly improve accessibility to the iconic temple, promoting tourism and cultural exchange. Furthermore, detailed project reports are underway for several other ropeway projects across Jammu & Kashmir, including key tourist and pilgrimage sites. Beyond passenger transport, the development of a Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) at Vijaypur is set to revolutionise trade and commerce. This project, to be developed on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) basis, will integrate an Inland Container Depot (ICD) for export/import, a Container Freight Station, extensive warehousing facilities, cold storage, and dedicated truck terminals. This comprehensive logistics hub will streamline supply chains, reduce transportation costs, and enhance the region’s competitiveness in national and international trade.
In a related development, a crucial meeting also reviewed the modalities for the takeover of approach roads constructed by the Indian Railways for the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project by the Jammu & Kashmir Public Works Department (PWD). These 29 approach roads, spanning over 201 kilometres in the Katra-Banihal section, were vital during the rail project’s execution. Their handover to the PWD for regular maintenance, formalised by a Memorandum of Understanding, ensures sustained upkeep for the benefit of local populations and enhanced connectivity, aligning with the vision of creating zero net carbon, eco-friendly, and gender-neutral cities through robust infrastructure.
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