New Delhi: Sat Sharma, CA, President, J&K BJP and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), raised an important issue concerning the upgradation of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), in the Rajya Sabha through an unstarred question.
Sat Sharma, seeking clarity from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, inquired about the progress achieved for 336 kms Jammu-Srinagar National Highway under Bharatmala Phase-I, assessment of improvements in travel efficiency and logistics movement, and the road safety and traffic management measures being implemented along the corridor.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Jairam Gadkari, responding to the query, informed the House that the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, spanning approximately 244 km, is being developed into a four-lane highway. He stated that around 230 km of the highway has already been completed, covering key stretches including Jammu–Ramban and Banihal–Srinagar, along with the construction of 20 tunnels and 9 bypasses. The remaining 14 km stretch of the Ramban–Banihal section is currently under execution and is expected to be completed by June 2027.
The Minister further highlighted that the project has significantly enhanced connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar by reducing travel distance from about 295 km to 244 km and cutting travel time from 8–9 hours to nearly 5 hours. This has also led to considerable savings in fuel consumption and improved logistics efficiency across the region.
On safety and monitoring, Gadkari emphasized that highway development is being carried out as per Indian Roads Congress (IRC) standards, with comprehensive measures including road safety audits, installation of signage, crash barriers, road markings, and illumination at critical locations. Continuous monitoring through Network Survey Vehicles (NSV) and field inspections is also being undertaken, along with timely maintenance and deployment of traffic management systems to ensure safe, reliable, and all-weather connectivity.
Speaking on the occasion, Sat Sharma lauded the leadership of Narendra Modi for transforming India’s road infrastructure, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir. He stated that the unprecedented focus of the Government of India on strengthening the road network has accelerated overall development in the region and significantly contributed to the socio-economic upliftment of the people.
He emphasized that the upgraded highway network ensures smoother and faster movement of the Armed Forces, civilians, and logistics, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and preparedness. The improved road infrastructure has played a crucial role in ensuring safety, stability, and economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir, he said.
