Infrastructure – Udhampur Sees Major Transformation Through New Connectivity Projects
Infrastructure – Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday highlighted the rapid pace of development in the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda parliamentary constituency, stating that the region has undergone substantial transformation over the past decade through a series of major infrastructure and public service projects.
According to Singh, several facilities that were previously unavailable in the region have now been established, significantly improving connectivity and access to essential services. He noted that Udhampur has witnessed the introduction of a passport office, the development of railway infrastructure, and the commencement of operations of two Vande Bharat trains during the last ten years.
Expansion of Transport Infrastructure
Emphasising ongoing connectivity initiatives, the Union Minister said preparations are underway for the opening of an airport in the region. He mentioned that the project has progressed considerably, with the tendering process already completed. Alongside this, the area has benefited from the construction of a medical college and the development of improved highway networks.
He further stated that enhanced road infrastructure has reduced travel time between Jammu and Udhampur, making the journey significantly faster and more convenient for residents and visitors.
Improvements in Educational Facilities
Singh also pointed to advancements in the education sector, particularly in rural areas. He said several educational institutions, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and degree colleges, have been established in locations where such facilities were previously unavailable.
The minister described these initiatives as efforts aimed at providing greater educational opportunities to students living in remote and underserved communities. He added that the expansion of academic infrastructure has helped bridge long-standing gaps in access to quality education.
Remarks on Past Development Challenges
While discussing the region’s growth, Singh criticised earlier administrations, claiming that the constituency had remained overlooked for many years. He alleged that regional imbalances and policy priorities of previous governments prevented the area from receiving adequate attention and investment.
Referring to the broader development agenda of the current administration, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had emphasised the need to support regions that had historically lagged behind. According to Singh, this approach has helped bring previously neglected areas closer to the national development mainstream through targeted infrastructure and welfare initiatives.
New Tunnel Project Approved on NH-44
Earlier this month, Singh announced another major infrastructure proposal for Jammu and Kashmir. On June 9, he revealed that a new two-lane tube tunnel will be built alongside the existing Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel on the Chenani-Nashri section of National Highway 44.
The minister shared the update through a social media post and expressed gratitude to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for approving the proposal.
Expected Relief for Highway Traffic
According to Singh, the additional tunnel is expected to play a crucial role in reducing traffic pressure on one of the region’s busiest highway corridors. The project is aimed at improving traffic movement, enhancing road safety, and ensuring smoother travel for commuters and commercial vehicles using the route.
He also recalled that the existing Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 2, 2017, and has since become an important component of road connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
The newly approved tunnel is expected to further strengthen transportation infrastructure while supporting economic activity and regional mobility across the Union Territory.