Srinagar, Jan 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has formally advocated for national highway status for the Bandipora-Sumbal-Gurez road with Union Minister for Road, Transport, and Highways Nitin Gadkari. This demand follows a letter from MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat, urging the Chief Minister to address the long-standing issue concerning the highway status of a key regional route.
In a letter responding to Bhat, dated December 20, 2024, Abdullah confirmed that he has raised the matter with the Union Ministry for consideration. “This has reference to your D.O letter dated 20-12-2024, containing issue relating to grant of National highway status to the road from Sumbal to Gurez. The issue has been taken up with the Union Ministry vide officer letter No.HCM/PS/2024/ND-04 for consideration,” the Chief Minister wrote.
MLA Nizamuddin Bhat has consistently pressed for this change, saying the road has strategic, economic, and accessibility importance. In previous sessions, including the first session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly in November, Bhat voiced his concerns, calling for swift action to elevate the status of this essential road.
The absence of national highway status for the Bandipora-Sumbal-Gurez route has been a point of contention among local stakeholders, as it plays a crucial role in connecting the region and facilitating trade and movement. The call for its recognition reflects broader concerns about infrastructure development in border areas, aiming to enhance connectivity and bolster economic growth.
