DPR for alternate Sgr-Pahalgam road prepared

Pulwama, Mar 13: The Jammu & Kashmir Public Works (R&B) Department has confirmed plans to construct an alternate road from Srinagar to Pahalgam via Khrew, Wahab Sahib, Syedabad (Pastuna), Karmula Tral, and Lehndajan.
The new route is expected to reduce the travel distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam by approximately 30 kilometers and boost tourism in the lesser-explored upper regions of Tral.
The development came to light in response to a Starred Assembly Question (A.Q. No. 701) raised by MLA Pampore, retired Justice Hasnain Masoodi.
The Minister Incharge acknowledged that the project, once completed, would not only improve travel convenience but also create economic opportunities by attracting tourists to these unexplored areas, ultimately generating employment in tourism and related sectors.
It was revealed that the proposed road consists of two segments. The first segment, from Wahab Sahib Khrew to Pastuna, spans 8 kilometers and has an estimated cost of ₹27 crore.
However, it requires the acquisition of 108 kanals of forest land and the felling of 845 trees, necessitating forest clearance before construction can commence.
The second segment, from Tral-Bathnoor Bugmad to Pahalgam, is estimated to cost ₹44.10 crore and passes through forest land, requiring the removal of a significant number of Kail and Deodar trees. The Minister Incharge acknowledged that while the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for both segments have been prepared, progress depends on obtaining environmental approvals and securing the necessary funding.