Flood-hit roads in J&K being restored at war footing: Jitendra Singh

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday said that restoration work on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in Udhampur district is progressing on a war footing, despite continuous rainfall and adverse weather conditions. He expressed optimism that the highway would be operational soon, possibly within a day or two.

Singh, who represents the Udhampur-Kathua Lok Sabha constituency, shared updates on the situation via social media platform X, stating that in Udhampur district alone, out of 400 damaged roads, over 50 per cent have already been restored, with more expected to reopen shortly. He reiterated that the Srinagar-Jammu highway, which has remained closed for several days due to extensive damage caused by heavy rainfall, is likely to reopen soon, depending on weather conditions.

The Minister added that efforts are also underway to restore road connectivity to peripheral and remote areas such as Gordi, Latti, Dudu, and Basantgarh. He acknowledged that water supply has not yet been fully restored in some areas of Ramnagar, Moungri, Latti, and Basantgarh, but assured that alternative arrangements have been made through water tankers.

Providing an update on Ramban district, Singh said power supply has been fully restored and road connectivity has been re-established up to 85 percent, ensuring the smooth movement of people and essential supplies. Restoration of water supply and other basic services is also being expedited.

In Doda district, Singh reported that landslides and damages along National Highway 244 have been cleared, and the route is now open for traffic. “Thathri Kathawa road got opened after one week providing much needed connectivity to over 15,000 people,” he said.

He further informed that the villages of Bheja, Kutyara, and Sartingal, which were severely affected during the adverse weather, have received critical support from the Army, including the installation of footbridges and distribution of essential supplies such as ration, solar lights, and bedding.

“Kishtwar- Chatroo- Sinthan Top road will be opened today as blasting was done yesterday to remove heavy rocks and boulders that blocked the road,” he said.

In Kathua district, the Minister said that the PMGSY road leading to Bhed Blode was made motorable on Friday after remaining blocked for 20 days. He added that the Bani-Basohli road is expected to reopen for light motor vehicles soon.

He assured the public that there was no shortage of essential commodities and that supplies are being ensured across all affected areas.