SUHAIL KHAN
SRINAGAR, Dec 19: Following the abrogation of Article 370, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has experienced significant changes, not only in its socio-political landscape but also in its development.
A recent report presented by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in response to a Lok Sabha query, as per Kashmir Despatch, indicates that Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has witnessed a remarkable increase in investments allocated for the construction and maintenance of National Highways over the past five years.
The data reveals a steadfast commitment from the central government to enhance infrastructure in the region, with a cumulative expenditure exceeding Rs 30,000 crore devoted to road development.
From 2019 to 2024, J&K has experienced substantial year-on-year funding increases. In the fiscal year 2019-20, Rs 2,256 crore was allocated, consistent with the expenditure of the same amount. This marked the beginning of a sustained investment period. The following year, during 2020-21, the allocation increased to Rs 2,932 crore, with the same amount also spent on National Highway development. The allocation further surged to Rs 6,817 crore in 2021-22, with expenditure mirroring the allocation.
Continuing this trend, in 2022-23, Rs 7,370 crore was both allocated and spent, followed by an allocation of Rs 10,528 crore in 2023-24. This growing financial commitment underscores the government’s focus on completing major National Highway projects in the region, which are vital for both regional development and national connectivity. By October 2024, Rs 5,475 crore has already been allocated for the current fiscal year, with significant progress observed in ongoing road construction.
In 2024 alone, 108 kilometers of National Highways have been completed in Jammu and Kashmir, with more projects underway. The state’s road network is expected to continue expanding, boosting local economies and overall connectivity in the region. The government’s considerable investments in J&K aim not only to enhance transport links but also to foster greater economic opportunities, tourism, and development in this strategically important area.
Ladakh has also seen significant investments in its National Highway infrastructure over the past five years. Although the allocated funds were relatively modest compared to other states, there has been a steady increase in funding, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving connectivity in this remote region. In 2020-21, Rs 24 crore was allocated, which was fully utilized, marking the initiation of focused efforts to enhance road infrastructure in the newly formed Union Territory.
The financial commitment grew substantially in 2021-22, with Rs 352 crore allocated for the development of National Highways, followed by Rs 574 crore in 2022-23. In 2023-24, the allocated amount rose to Rs 658 crore, with similar expenditure levels. By October 2024, Rs 534 crore had already been allocated, with a significant portion dedicated to ongoing road projects. These funds are essential for developing a resilient road network that connects Ladakh with the rest of India, thereby promoting both economic growth and tourism in the region.
The expansion of National Highways in Ladakh not only improves accessibility but also bolsters national security in the area.
