J&K, 21 March : Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are getting major upgrades to their road systems, with 47 highway projects covering 810 kilometers in J&K and six projects spanning 159 kilometers in Ladakh currently being built. The total cost for these projects is about Rs 41,735 crore for J&K and Rs 2,076 crore for Ladakh, according to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
These highway projects are part of a larger plan to expand the country’s highways, which have grown from 91,287 kilometers in 2014 to an expected 1,46,204 kilometers by 2025. The ministry stated that these improvements will help with better connectivity, boost trade routes, and provide year-round access to remote areas.
To ensure safety on the roads, the government is also putting in place several measures. These include safety audits, fixing accident-prone areas, and using advanced safety technologies in vehicles.
Additionally, the government plans to build wayside amenities (WSAs) every 40-60 kilometers along the national highways. These WSAs will have fuel stations, electric vehicle (EV) charging points, rest areas, and food courts. Out of more than 700 planned WSAs, 393 have been awarded, and 94 are already in operation.
These highway projects and the new WSAs are expected to make life easier for people living in and traveling through Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. They will help improve access and make the regions more connected.
As these projects move forward, they are likely to play an important role in boosting the local economy, helping trade and tourism, and making travel safer for everyone. For more updates on these developments, keep an eye on local news and official announcements.
