₹3,300-Crore Highway to Connect Rajouri and Baramulla: Construction to Begin Soon
The construction of a major ₹3,300-crore highway, spanning 300 kilometres, connecting Rajouri with Baramulla in north Kashmir, is set to commence soon. The project has been handed over to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for implementation.
This ambitious project, designated as National Highway 701A, aims to improve connectivity across Jammu and Kashmir by linking Rajouri and Poonch districts in Jammu with Baramulla in the Kashmir Valley. The highway will serve as an alternative to the Jammu-Srinagar highway, easing traffic congestion and reducing travel time significantly.
Detailed Project Plans
According to details shared by the Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has tasked its regional office in Jammu to engage a consultant for Project Management Consultancy (PMC). This will include a feasibility study, preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR), pre-construction services, and overseeing the supervision of the two-lane highway with paved shoulders.
The highway will traverse key locations such as Shopian, Kellar, Pakherpora, Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, and Magam. The route, strategically planned to connect important areas, is expected to enhance accessibility for travellers and boost the region’s tourism potential.
Route Details and Features
The new highway will stretch from NH-1 near Narbal and connect prominent destinations, including Magam, Doodhpathri, Yousmarg, Pakherpora, Kellar, Shopian, and Bafliaz, before terminating at NH-144A near Surankote in Poonch. A significant portion of the highway, spanning 159 kilometres, will pass through scenic locations like Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in upper Budgam.
The road will be a four-lane highway with a total width of around 70 feet. It will follow the existing Mughal Road alignment in some sections, passing through areas such as Zawoora, Mushwara, Shadimarg, Drabgam, Aglar, and Charipora, among others.
Economic and Social Impact
The ₹3,300-crore project is expected to bring significant benefits to the region. Apart from reducing travel time, the highway will bolster economic activities by facilitating smoother transport of goods and services. It is also expected to attract tourists to lesser-known destinations like Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, and Pakherpora, providing a boost to the local economy.
This alternative route will bypass the often-congested Jammu-Srinagar highway, offering a more efficient option for travellers. Additionally, the project will improve connectivity for remote areas, fostering development and integration within the region.
Timeline and Maintenance
The highway is slated to be completed within two years, with a maintenance period of five years to ensure its quality and durability. The BRO, renowned for its expertise in constructing infrastructure in challenging terrains, has been entrusted with the project’s execution.
Conclusion
The ₹3,300-crore highway project connecting Rajouri and Baramulla marks a significant step towards enhancing connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. By bridging critical regions and improving accessibility, the highway promises to be a game-changer for the state’s development and tourism. Construction is expected to begin soon, with high hopes for its timely completion and long-term benefits to the region.
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