Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Jan 16:
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh today virtually launched here nearly 150 roads and bridges in his Parliamentary Constituency under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in Jammu & Kashmir. He also laid the foundation stone of dozens of connectivity projects in the districts of Udhampur, Ramban, Doda, Kishtwar and Kathua, in presence of Deputy Chief Minister of J&K, Shri Surinder Choudhary, local MLAs and other public representatives of the region.
On the occasion, among the major projects, three roads and six bridges constructed under the PMGSY at a total sanctioned cost of 3,898.56 lakh rupees were inaugurated by Dr Singh. Under the scheme, two roads and two bridges have been constructed in Udhampur district at a sanctioned cost of 1,865.65 lakh rupees. One road and four bridges have been constructed in Kathua district at a sanctioned cost of 2,032.91 lakh rupees. Addressing the gathering,
Dr Jitendra Virtually
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised the importance of ensuring high-quality roads and essential services while maintaining the pace of development work in the region. A new work culture has emerged under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, with local representatives at the forefront, reflecting the spirit of multi-tier democracy, the Minister underlined. He said the previously neglected areas have been given priority for their development. Dr Singh informed that the Sudhmadev Tunnel project is set to move forward, with tendering to commence soon, after earlier cancellation due to security considerations.
In challenging terrains, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the need for innovative technologies, such as steel-reinforced roads, to ensure long-lasting infrastructure and ease of maintenance. He also urged the use of the GATI Shakti portal to monitor forest and other clearances for connectivity projects, and noted that it has become a role model for project management across the country.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further emphasised the importance of close coordination between officers and local representatives. He urged that MLAs submit lists of connectivity projects to ensure their inputs are incorporated during inspections and planning, strengthening participatory governance.
In his address, Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Surinder Choudhary reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure in the Union Territory and stated that enhanced road and bridge connectivity would significantly improve mobility, safety, and overall socio-economic development in the region. He said the newly inaugurated infrastructure projects are expected to provide a major boost to rural development and reflect the Government’s continued focus on building resilient and modern infrastructure for balanced regional growth.
