Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Approves Rs. 224.44 Crore for Shopian Bypass Construction

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, took to social media to announce the approval of a budget of Rs. 224.44 crore for the construction of the Shopian Bypass on National Highway-444 in Jammu & Kashmir.

The project aims to convert the highway into a two-lane road with paved shoulders, spanning over 8.925 kilometers in the Shopian district. The construction will be executed using the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) Mode.

Emphasizing the strategic significance of the project, Gadkari highlighted its role in connecting Shopian District with Pulwama and Kulgam within the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. This development is expected to benefit apple growers in south Kashmir, particularly in Shopian district, often referred to as the “Apple bowl of the valley,” by facilitating swifter transportation of their produce to markets.

Gadkari underscored the broader impact of the project, anticipating improved connectivity and heightened road safety measures in the region. The initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing infrastructure and fostering economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir.