₹2093 Cr Sanctioned for Highways & Ropeway Projects by Shri Nitin Gadkari
The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, has announced a significant allocation of ₹1404.94 crore for the widening and strengthening of the Rafiabad – Kupwara – Chowkibal – Tangdhar – Chamkot section of National Highway-701. This project, executed under Project Beacon in Baramulla & Kupwara districts on an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) Mode, aims to transform the 51-kilometer route into a two-lane highway with paved shoulders.
The strategic route connecting Baramulla and Kupwara districts plays a crucial role in logistics in the region and is essential for the development of the tourism sector in North Kashmir near the International Border. This critical initiative will not only improve connectivity but also enhance the overall infrastructure, facilitating smoother movement of goods and people.
Ropeway for Convenient Access to Shankaracharya Temple
In another significant development, Shri Gadkari announced an allocation of ₹126.58 crore for the development, operation, and maintenance of a ropeway from SDA Parking (Near Zabarwan Park) to the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar district. Spanning 1.05 kilometres, this project will utilize MonoCable Detachable Gondola (MDG) Technology with a capacity to transport 700 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD).
The ropeway is designed to offer a panoramic view of Srinagar city and Dal Lake, providing a safe and convenient transportation means for visitors. It will ensure easy access for individuals with disabilities and senior citizens to visit the temple, reducing travel time from approximately 30 minutes to about 5 minutes. Additionally, this eco-friendly mode of transport will create employment opportunities for the local populace and bring economic benefits to the region by enhancing tourism.
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Upgrading Nashri-Chennai Highway for Better Connectivity
The Minister also announced an allocation of ₹562.40 crore for the upgrade and strengthening project of the Nashri-Chenani section of National Highway-244. Spanning 39.10 kilometres in districts Udhampur & Ramban, this initiative will operate on the EPC mode under National Highway (O).
Patnitop, a prominent tourist spot in the region, will benefit greatly from this project as the road’s enhancement will offer improved connectivity, fostering economic development in the area. The upgraded highway will facilitate smoother travel for both locals and tourists, boosting tourism and economic activities in the region.
These massive infrastructure projects approved by the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, are a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and promoting economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir. The upgradation of strategic highways, the development of a ropeway, and the strengthening of crucial road networks will not only improve logistics and transportation but also boost tourism, create employment opportunities, and foster overall development in the region.
