SRINAGAR: The Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) on Monday extended gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister Nitin Gadkari for greenlighting the critical projects. In a press statement, AIP’s Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi credited Engineer Rashid’s detailed representation of North Kashmir’s transport challenges for the approvals.
The Sadhana Tunnel, which will ensure all-weather connectivity to the remote Tangdhar region in Kupwara district, is expected to significantly improve access and security in the border area.
In addition to the tunnel, the Centre has also approved the upgradation of the Trehgam–Chamkote section of NH-701, the construction of a four-lane flyover at Magam on the Narbal–Gulmarg corridor, the rehabilitation of the Beerwah Bridge, and the continuation of the two-lane Road Over Bridge at Mazhama.
“These approvals reflect the government’s acknowledgment of the infrastructure gaps and hardships faced by people in North Kashmir,” Inam Un Nabi said. “Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had assured MP Er Rashid that the demands would be taken up seriously, and the approvals confirm that commitment.”
The AIP also expressed hope that other critical proposals made by Er Rashid, including road connectivity between Lolab and Bandipora, the Takipora Lolab–Sopore road link, and the proposed tunnels at Gurez and Machil, will receive approval in the near future.
“These projects are vital for economic development, tourism, public mobility, and strategic preparedness,” the spokesperson added, urging the Centre to expedite pending proposals.
The approvals come shortly after the Union Government announced 19 major road and tunnel projects worth Rs 10,637 crore for Jammu and Kashmir, marking a major push for connectivity in the Union Territory.
