Jammu: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on Saturday announced that work to widen the strategic Dhar Road, which connects Udhampur and Samba districts, will begin soon.
During his visit to his home constituency, the Udhampur MP laid the foundation stone for 45 road projects worth ₹924.23 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). These projects span the districts of Kathua, Udhampur, Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban. He also inaugurated nine additional road projects valued at ₹86.77 crore across the same five districts.
Dr. Singh said the PMGSY projects reflect the Modi government’s commitment to strengthening rural connectivity in unconnected areas. He added that the present government has prioritised fair, region-specific development, especially for the Jammu region.
Highlighting the progress made in recent years, he noted that Kathua district has consistently ranked among the top performers nationally in road infrastructure development, underscoring the government’s focus on balanced regional growth.
The minister also pointed out that security considerations play an important role in road construction in sensitive areas. He said the government is coordinating with security agencies to ensure smooth execution of road projects, particularly after Operation Sindoor.
He said the widening of Dhar Road became a pressing need following Operation Sindoor and has already received clearance from defence authorities. The project will begin soon to benefit both civilians and defence personnel.
Dr. Singh added that the virtual launch of multiple new road projects reflects the government’s continued push to expand rural infrastructure, promote inclusive growth, and enhance the quality of life in remote areas. Strong road networks, he said, are vital to rural development, improving access to education, healthcare, markets, and emergency services.
Earlier, the minister took part in celebrations marking Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary and ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ commemorating the birth anniversary of tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda at Batote in Ramban district. He also flagged off a padyatra in Patel’s honour, which moved through local markets to spread the message of national unity.
