SRINAGAR: Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Jairam Gadkari informed the Lok Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir’s national highway network has expanded significantly over the past six years. Responding to questions from MPs Omprakash Bhupalsinh and Sanjay Haribhau Jadhav, Gadkari outlined the progressive addition of new road lengths to the region’s infrastructure.
According to the minister, 46 kilometres of national highways were added in 2019-20, followed by 234 kilometres in 2020-21. In 2021-22, an additional 263 kilometres were incorporated into the network, with 217 kilometres added in 2022-23. The growth continued with 243 kilometres in 2023-24, and a further 128 kilometres are planned for the current year, 2024-25.
This cumulative expansion of over 1,130 kilometres underscores the government’s focus on improving connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, which has been a critical area for infrastructure development. Gadkari emphasised the importance of these projects in enhancing economic growth, regional integration, and accessibility in the union territory.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways continues to prioritise strategic road development in challenging terrains, ensuring improved mobility and safety for residents and travellers alike.