Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surinder Choudhary, announced in the legislative assembly that the construction work on the Shopian-Aglar road project will resume as soon as weather conditions improve. The statement came in response to a question raised by Advocate Shabir Ahmad Kullay, who sought updates on the progress of the project and its current status.
The Shopian-Aglar road project, officially designated as the “Shopian to Aglar road,” was approved under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Incentive Fund for the fiscal year 2024-2025. The allotment for the project was issued in October 2024, marking the beginning of its implementation. According to the Deputy Chief Minister, approximately 3.50 kilometers of the road have already been completed before the onset of the harsh winter season. The remaining work is expected to commence once the weather becomes more favorable, ensuring smoother construction processes and better quality outcomes.
Background and importance of the project
The Shopian-Aglar road project is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity in the Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. Shopian, known for its apple orchards and agricultural produce, has long faced challenges due to inadequate road networks, which hinder transportation and economic growth. The completion of this road will not only enhance connectivity between Shopian and Aglar but also facilitate easier access to markets, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions for the local population.
The project is part of the broader efforts by the government to boost rural infrastructure under the PMGSY scheme, which focuses on providing all-weather road connectivity to unconnected villages. By improving road networks, the government aims to stimulate economic activities, reduce travel time, and improve the overall quality of life for residents in remote areas.
Progress on Other Key Roads
In addition to the Shopian-Aglar road project, Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary provided updates on several other road projects in the region. He informed the assembly that the Shopian to Keegam stretch, spanning 9 kilometers, is being maintained by the Public Works Department (PWD) as part of National Highway-444 (NH-444). This road serves as a vital link for commuters and traders, and its maintenance ensures smooth transportation in the area.
Furthermore, the Keegam-Daramdora and Daramdora-Mazhama-Gaberpora-Yedpora roads were completed under the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) XXVI during the fiscal year 2021-22. These roads are currently in good condition and are covered under the Defect Liability Period (DLP), which ensures that any defects or issues arising within a specified period will be addressed by the contractors.
The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted the completion of the Keegam-Hajicheck-Marheng road under NABARD RIDF XXVII in the fiscal year 2022-23. This road, too, is in good condition and falls under the DLP, ensuring its durability and maintenance.
Chowan-Batfojan Road: A Success Story
Another notable achievement mentioned by Deputy CM Choudhary was the construction of the Chowan-Batfojan road under the PMGSY scheme. This road has significantly improved connectivity in the region and is currently in good condition. To ensure its longevity, a renewal coat was laid on the road during 2021-2022, further enhancing its durability and performance.
The successful completion and maintenance of these roads underscore the government’s commitment to improving rural infrastructure and addressing the long-standing connectivity issues in Jammu and Kashmir. These projects are expected to have a transformative impact on the region’s economy, particularly in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and trade.
Challenges and Way Forward
While the progress on these road projects is commendable, the Deputy Chief Minister acknowledged that weather conditions pose a significant challenge to construction activities in the region. The harsh winters, characterized by heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, often lead to delays in project timelines. However, the government remains committed to ensuring that all pending work is completed as soon as the weather permits.
In addition to weather-related challenges, the government is also focusing on addressing issues related to land acquisition, environmental clearances, and logistical constraints. By streamlining these processes and leveraging advanced construction technologies, the authorities aim to expedite the completion of ongoing projects and minimize delays.
Shopian NH-444
The Shopian-Aglar road project, along with other key infrastructure initiatives, reflects the government’s dedication to improving connectivity and fostering economic development in Jammu and Kashmir. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary’s announcement regarding the resumption of work on the Shopian-Aglar road project has been met with optimism by local residents and stakeholders. As the weather improves, the resumption of construction activities will bring the region one step closer to achieving its goal of seamless connectivity and sustainable growth.
The completion of these projects will not only enhance the quality of life for the people of Shopian but also serve as a catalyst for economic prosperity in the region. With continued focus and timely execution, the government’s efforts are poised to transform the rural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for a brighter and more connected future.
