J&K’s Infra Leap: Centre sanctions Rs 2,093 Cr for J&K roads, ropeway

Srinagar, Mar 8: In a major boost to infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir, the Centre has approved a whopping outlay of Rs 2,093.92 crore for widening two vital highways and constructing a ropeway project in the Union Territory. 

The announcement was made by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Friday.

The lion’s share of the allocation, amounting to Rs 1,404.94 crore, has been earmarked for the widening and strengthening of the strategic Rafiabad-Kupwara-Chowkibal-Tangdhar-Chamkot section of National Highway-701. Executed under Project Beacon in the districts of Baramulla and Kupwara on an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) mode, the 51-km route will be transformed into a two-lane highway, a crucial artery for logistics in the Valley.
Gadkari highlighted the pivotal role this highway plays in the development of the tourism sector in North Kashmir near the Border. “This initiative aims to transform the 51 km route into two lanes. The highway is critical for logistics in the region as it forms a part of the strategic route connecting the Baramulla and Kupwara districts. It plays a pivotal role and is integral to the development of the tourism sector in North Kashmir near the International Border,” the minister stated.
In a bid to enhance the tourism appeal of Srinagar, the Centre has also approved an allocation of Rs 126.58 crore for the development, operation, and maintenance of a 1.5 km ropeway from SDA Parking (Near Zabarwan Park) to the iconic Shankaracharya Temple. Utilizing state-of-the-art monocable detachable gondola (MDG) technology, the ropeway will have the capacity to transport 700 persons per hour per direction, offering panoramic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake.
“This project is designed to offer a panoramic view of Srinagar city and Dal Lake, providing a safe and convenient transportation means. 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,” Gadkari said, adding that the ropeway will also create employment opportunities and boost economic growth through enhanced tourism.
The Centre has further allotted Rs 562.40 crore for the upgradation and strengthening of the Nashri-Chenani section of National Highway-244, spanning 39.1 km in the districts of Udhampur and Ramban. Executed on the EPC mode under National Highway (O), this project is expected to improve connectivity to the popular tourist destination of Patnitop, fostering economic development in the region.
The massive infrastructure push by the Centre is aimed at bolstering connectivity, accessibility, and tourism potential in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for economic growth and prosperity in the Union Territory, officials said.