Jammu and Kashmir BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur on Tuesday welcomed the Centre’s approval of several major infrastructure projects worth Rs 10,637 crore, calling it a 'historic step' towards transforming the region.
Speaking at a press conference in Srinagar, Thakur said the newly sanctioned projects include tunnels, roads, drainage systems and urban infrastructure, and would greatly benefit both locals and tourists.
“These projects were approved without any demand from our side, which shows the Modi government’s strong commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
He praised Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for fulfilling long-pending demands, especially in far-flung and strategic areas of Kashmir.
The projects were approved by the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, under the 2025–26 National Highway Action Plan. Thakur expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Gadkari for what he called a 'visionary push' to transform Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure.
“These projects will greatly improve travel, connect remote areas, and help boost trade, tourism, and local livelihoods,” Thakur said. “They are not just about roads—they bring opportunity and hope to the people of J&K.”
Among the major projects approved is the Peer Ki Gali tunnel on NH-701A, sanctioned at Rs 3,830 crore, which will make the Mughal Road an all-weather route, connecting Rajouri and Poonch with Shopian in South Kashmir. Another important project is the Sadhna tunnel on NH-701, approved for Rs 3,330 crore, which will ensure round-the-year access to Karnah Valley in north Kashmir.
Other approved works include the Zaznar–Shopian section of NH-701A (Rs 852 crore), a four-lane flyover from Lal Chowk to Parimpora in Srinagar (Rs 700 crore), the Trehgam–Chamkote section of NH-701 (Rs 966 crore), and a Magam flyover on the Narbal–Gulmarg route (Rs 445 crore). The Centre has also approved Rs 95 crore for the Qazigund Bypass and Rs 71 crore for a two-lane bridge over the Rambiara river in Shopian.
Thakur said that these projects show the Centre’s strong intent to deliver on long-pending infrastructure needs.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has also thanked PM Modi and Nitin Gadkari for the approvals, calling them important for the Union Territory’s progress.
“These projects will help bring Jammu and Kashmir closer to the rest of the country—not just through roads, but through real development,” Thakur said.
