BuzzBytes Jammu, Nov 28:
In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to conduct a virtual review of four major projects in Jammu and Kashmir during the monthly ‘PRAGATI’ (Pro-Active Governance & Timely Implementation) conference on November 29. The projects under scrutiny include the Delhi-Katra Expressway, Ramban-Banihal section of National Highway, Srinagar Ring Road, and IIM Jammu.
Delhi-Katra Expressway:
During the review of the Delhi-Katra Expressway, Union Secretary Road Transport and Highways, Secretary Power, and Chief Secretaries of Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana will virtually participate. The Rs 38,691 crore project, currently 39 percent complete, is slated for completion in 2026. The focus will be on expediting the remaining work to reduce travel distance and duration significantly.
Ramban-Banihal Section of National Highway:
The Prime Minister will also assess the progress of the 4-laning of the Ramban-Banihal section of National Highway-44, spanning from 151 to 187 kilometers. Costing Rs 5,167.41 crore, the project is set for completion in 2025, with 33 percent physical progress achieved. Discussions will revolve around accelerating the project and addressing challenges, including Banihal bypass and utility shifting.
Srinagar Ring Road and IIM Jammu:
Two other major projects on the agenda are the Srinagar Ring Road Phase-I and IIM Jammu. The Srinagar Ring Road Phase-I, with a project cost of Rs 2,522.18 crore, has achieved nearly 33 percent progress. The construction, which commenced on August 6, 2021, is expected to conclude by August 2024. The Ring Road aims to alleviate traffic congestion in Srinagar and improve connectivity to various districts.
Meanwhile, IIM Jammu, with 93 percent work completed and an overall cost of Rs 424.93 crore, is anticipated to wrap up construction by December 2023. The Prime Minister will likely review the final stages of this educational institution’s development.
These projects hold strategic importance, not only for regional development but also for bolstering economic ties and connectivity. The Delhi-Katra Expressway, in particular, is poised to provide shorter routes to religious, industrial, and economic hubs, fostering overall economic growth in the region.
As the virtual review approaches, stakeholders eagerly await the Prime Minister’s guidance on expediting these crucial infrastructure projects for the benefit of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The outcomes of this PRAGATI conference are anticipated to play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of these transformative initiatives.
