CS Dulloo reviews progress of major highways, tunnels across J&K

Jammu: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo Thursday chaired a high-level meeting to review the status of major highway and road development projects being executed across Jammu & Kashmir by Project Beacon, Project Sampark, NHAI, NHIDCL, and the Public Works (R&B) Department.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; Secretary Transport; Engineer-in-Chief (Works); Regional Officer, NHAI; Chief Engineers of Project Beacon and Project Sampark and other senior officers. All Deputy Commissioners participated through video conferencing.
Addressing the meeting Chief Secretary comprehensively reviewed the working of major highway projects across the Union Territory, focusing on project and package progress. He sought detailed timelines for completion and identified bottlenecks faced by executing agencies. Emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to permissions for construction material extraction Chief Secretary instructed Deputy Commissioners to expedite compensation cases to facilitate timely land handovers for project execution. The Chief Secretary also called for prompt forest clearances as needed. Both Divisional Commissioners were tasked with maintaining regular communication with implementing agencies to swiftly resolve issues and sustain project momentum. The Chief Secretary highlighted the necessity for the Public Works Department to finalize new Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) to expedite the tendering and execution phases of crucial projects. A thorough review of several flagship road corridors was conducted, including the Srinagar–Baramulla–Uri Road and the Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Expressway, among others. Special attention was given to expediting works along NH-44, particularly tunnel projects, with a focus on completing the Banihal to Ramban stretch by the end of December. The Divisional Commissioner Jammu was directed to closely monitor these projects and provide regular progress updates. The meeting also addressed the status of metropolitan ring roads in Jammu and Srinagar, discussing land issues, construction progress, and connectivity enhancements. Key National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) projects were reviewed, including various road improvements and revised DPRs. Additionally, the progress of significant Roads and Buildings (R&B) projects was assessed, covering bypasses and flyovers in various towns. New connectivity projects were also discussed, reinforcing the Chief Secretary’s assertion that these initiatives are crucial for enhancing mobility, economic growth, and regional connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. He urged all departments and agencies to collaborate closely to ensure the timely completion of all projects and the swift resolution of any obstacles.