Dr Jitendra launches Rs 924 cr new, Rs 86 cr completed road projects, underlines rural connectivity
STATE TIMES NEWS
UDHAMPUR: Union Minister, Dr. Jitendra Singh, on Saturday reiterated the Modi Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening rural connectivity under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
He said the ongoing works across Jammu division demonstrate the government’s resolve to connect unserved habitations and bring equitable development to the remotest parts of the country.
Dr. Singh made these remarks while laying the foundation stone and inaugurating various PMGSY projects across the districts of Kathua, Udhampur, Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban through electronic mode. He laid the foundation stone for 45 road projects and inaugurated nine completed roads. The 45 new projects across five districts involve a total cost of Rs 924.23 crore, while the nine completed projects dedicated to the public were built at Rs 86.77 crore.
The Union Minister emphasized that most of these projects were initiated based on requests from local representatives, whose understanding of ground realities ensures better planning and accountability. He highlighted that the present government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has transformed project implementation through a bottom-up approach, ensuring decisions reflect real public needs. Dr. Singh noted that Kathua district has emerged as one of the top-ranked districts in the country for road infrastructure development in recent years, showcasing the Centre’s dedication to balanced regional growth. Addressing the strategic relevance of several road projects, he said the government is working in coordination with security agencies, particularly after Operation Sindoor, to ensure smooth road construction in sensitive areas.
Referring to the widening of Dhar Road, Dr. Singh said the project had been cleared by the Defence authorities and would be taken up soon, easing movement for both civilians and defence personnel. He said the virtual launch of multiple road projects reflects the government’s broader mission of improving rural infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and uplifting the lives of people in remote areas.
During the event, Dr. Singh also laid the foundation stone for the 3.350-km Channi Morh-Lower Sounthan link road in Udhampur, sanctioned at Rs 7.99 crore, which will benefit around 755 residents. He urged the administration to ensure timely clearances, strict quality control and coordinated execution to maximise public benefit and reduce travel hardships.
Dr. Singh said these road projects will significantly stimulate economic activity, improve access to healthcare, education and markets, and serve as a lifeline for rural communities. The event was attended by DDC Chairperson Lal Chand , MLAs Balwant Singh Mankotia, Pawan Kumar Gupta, Ranbir Singh Pathania, Sunil Bhardwaj, along with DCs and DDCs of multiple districts who joined through online mode.
