SRINAGAR: In the latest report presented by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in response to a Lok Sabha query, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has seen a remarkable surge in investments for the construction and maintenance of National Highways over the past five years. The figures demonstrate a continued commitment from the central government to enhance infrastructure in the region, with a cumulative expenditure of over Rs 30,000 crore allocated for road development.
From 2019 to 2024, the region has witnessed substantial year-on-year funding. In 2019-20, Rs 2,256 crore was allocated, which remained consistent with the expenditure of the same amount. This marked the beginning of a period of sustained investment. The following year, in 2020-21, the allocation increased to Rs 2,932 crore, with the same amount spent on NH development. In 2021-22, the allocation surged further to Rs 6,817 crore, continuing the upward trajectory with expenditure matching the allocation.
The trend of increased financial commitment to J&K’s infrastructure continued in 2022-23, with Rs 7,370 crore allocated and spent, followed by Rs 10,528 crore in 2023-24. The increase in expenditure reflects the government’s focus on completing major NH projects in the region, crucial for both regional development and national connectivity. As of October 2024, Rs 5,475 crore has already been allocated for the current fiscal year, with significant progress seen in the ongoing construction of NHs.
In 2024 alone, 108 km of National Highways have already been completed in Jammu and Kashmir, with more work underway. The state’s road network is expected to continue expanding, which is set to boost both local economies and the overall connectivity of the region. The government’s substantial investments in J&K are not just aimed at improving transport links but also at fostering greater economic opportunities, tourism, and development in this strategically important area.
Ladakh, too, has seen considerable investments in its National Highway infrastructure over the past five years. While the allocated funds were relatively modest compared to other states, there has been a steady increase in funding, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving connectivity in this remote and strategically important region. In 2020-21, the allocated amount was Rs 24 crore, which was fully spent. This marked the beginning of a focused effort to enhance road infrastructure in the newly formed Union Territory.
The financial commitment grew substantially in 2021-22, with Rs 352 crore allocated for the development of National Highways, followed by Rs 574 crore in 2022-23. In 2023-24, the allocated amount increased further to Rs 658 crore, with a similar expenditure. By October 2024, the government had already allocated Rs 534 crore, with a significant portion spent towards ongoing road projects. These funds are crucial for developing a resilient road network that links Ladakh with the rest of India, promoting both economic growth and tourism in the region. The expansion of National Highways in Ladakh not only facilitates easier access but also strengthens national security in the area.
