Dr. Jitendra Singh Lays Foundation Stone of PMGSY Roads Worth ₹1,503 Crore in Jammu
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for 110 road projects under PMGSY-IV, Batch-I of 2026-27, covering the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda-Kishtwar region. The projects have a total length of 598.455 kilometers and carry a sanctioned cost of ₹1,503.53 crore, 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 with a sanctioned cost of ₹307.12 crore. Udhampur accounts for 44 projects covering 235.040 km with a cost of ₹554.90 crore. Ramban has 13 projects covering 60.360 km costing ₹154.97 crore, while Doda accounts for 13 projects covering 90.180 km with ₹260.66 crore. Kishtwar has 16 projects covering 83.950 km with a sanctioned cost of ₹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 road projects, reflecting sustained priority to the constituency over the past 12 years, particularly during the last five years under Prime Minister Modi's leadership.
The improved connectivity aims to bring ease of living and ease of travel to remote hilly areas, specifically benefiting women, school children, and senior citizens who previously faced difficulties during rainy seasons. The projects also carry a security dimension by facilitating easier movement of security forces into remote areas vulnerable to militant movement, while simultaneously bringing development closer to local communities.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary emphasized that contractors must adhere to prescribed quality standards, with strict action against any shortcomings in execution. The bidding and tendering processes are being undertaken according to high standards to ensure quality construction.