Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo recently chaired an important meeting in Srinagar to discuss the progress of national highway construction projects in the Union Territory. The meeting took place on September 30 and involved key agencies such as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), and others.
During the meeting, various officials attended, including:
- Additional Chief Secretary for Forests
- Divisional Commissioners from Kashmir and Jammu
- Secretary of Roads and Buildings (R&B)
- Deputy Commissioners
- Chief Engineer of Public Works Department (PWD)
Atal Dulloo emphasized the need for increased efficiency in project execution. He urged all agencies involved to speed up their work and utilize available resources effectively to meet deadlines. He made it clear that changing timelines for project completion should only be done with valid reasons.
Dulloo directed the relevant departments to:
- Regularly monitor construction progress.
- Assist in resolving issues related to court cases, land disputes, and project handovers.
- Provide updates on estimated completion dates and actual progress for each project phase.
Several significant projects were evaluated during the meeting, including:
- NHAI Projects:
- Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway
- Jammu and Srinagar Ring Road
- Ramban-Banihal section of NH-44
- Marog to Digdol Tunnel
- Banihal Bypass
- NHIDCL Projects:
- Zojila Tunnel
- Z-Morh Tunnel
- Jammu-Akhnoor Road
- Chenani-Vailoo (NH-244)
- BRO Projects under Beacon and Sampark:
- Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri Expressway
- Rafiabad-Kupwara-Tangdhar Expressway
Additionally, various R&B projects were assessed, such as the construction of flyovers and feeder roads for major towns like Pulwama, Kulgam, and Shopian.
The meeting highlighted the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the region. By ensuring timely completion of these highway projects, officials aim to enhance connectivity and promote economic development in Jammu and Kashmir.