Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for 110 road projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)-IV, Batch-I of 2026-27, with a total sanctioned cost of ₹1,503.53 crore. The projects cover 598.455 kilometers across the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda-Kishtwar region and are expected to benefit 46,972 people across five districts of Jammu & Kashmir.
The district-wise breakdown shows Kathua accounts for 24 road projects covering 128.925 km (₹307.12 crore), Udhampur has 44 projects covering 235.040 km (₹554.90 crore), Ramban has 13 projects covering 60.360 km (₹154.97 crore), Doda accounts for 13 projects covering 90.180 km (₹260.66 crore), and Kishtwar has 16 projects covering 83.950 km (₹224.88 crore).
A notable feature of the projects is the incorporation of waste plastics in road construction across several packages, combining rural connectivity objectives with sustainable construction practices. The Minister emphasized that Udhampur has consistently ranked among the country's top three districts in PMGSY implementation, reflecting the government's continued priority to this region.
The improved connectivity is expected to bring ease of living and travel in remote hilly areas, particularly benefiting women, school children, and senior citizens who previously faced difficulties during rainy seasons. The projects also carry security significance by facilitating easier movement of security forces into remote areas vulnerable to militant activities while simultaneously bringing development closer to local communities.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary emphasized that there would be no compromise on construction quality and that strict action would be taken against any shortcomings in project execution. The bidding and tendering processes are being undertaken in accordance with high standards.