Baramulla, Feb 13: Over the past five years, a total of 238 kilometers of state roads in Jammu and Kashmir have been upgraded to National Highways as part of the central government’s efforts to improve road infrastructure in the UT.
As per the official data available with Rising Kashmir, 55 km of roads were converted in 2021-22, 124 km in 2022-23, and 59 km in 2023-24. The initiative falls under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which is focused on enhancing connectivity and boosting economic development.
It said that the conversion of state highways into national highways follows a well-defined process. Roads are selected based on several factors, such as their importance in connecting state capitals, major ports, industrial hubs, and tourist destinations.
Strategic roads in hilly and remote areas are also given priority to ensure better accessibility and security and highways that significantly reduce travel distance and improve economic growth are considered for conversion.
The process aligns with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, which aims to create a well-connected transport network across the country, it said.
The upgradation of state highways to national highways has already started showing positive effects in Jammu and Kashmir as improved roads have made transportation easier, reducing travel time and fuel costs.
Better connectivity has also benefited local businesses, farmers, and traders by giving them faster access to markets and tourism, a key part of J&K’s economy, is also expected to get a boost with better road infrastructure leading to major tourist destinations, it added.
