In a significant boost to rural connectivity, officials revealed on Sunday, December 1, 2024, that they have completed nearly 3,500 projects, including 217 bridges, under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in Jammu and Kashmir over the past two decades.
High-Level Review Meeting
Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Rural Development, Amit Shukla, chaired a comprehensive review meeting in Jammu to assess the implementation of PMGSY in the Union Territory. The discussion further centered on expediting project completion, ensuring strict adherence to quality standards, and enhancing connectivity across rural areas.
Also Read: India Sees 45% Surge In FDI During April-September
Programme Highlights And Achievements
- Launched in 2001-02, PMGSY aims to provide all-weather connectivity to rural habitations with populations exceeding 250, as per the 2001 Census.
- Authorities have approved 3,742 projects, including 305 bridges, covering a road length of 20,801 kilometers for Jammu and Kashmir.
- Officials have completed 3,429 projects, including 217 bridges, successfully connecting 2,129 out of the 2,140 targeted habitations.
- Expenditure: ₹12,650 crore has been invested in the program so far.
Focus on Quality And Timely Completion
During the meeting, Shukla further stressed the importance of maintaining uncompromising quality standards in road and bridge construction. He also called for a robust daily monitoring mechanism to address challenges and meet project timelines effectively.
On-Ground Inspections
Amit Shukla conducted an on-site review of critical infrastructure projects on November 30, 2024, in the Jammu region. He inspected the Kalas Kullian to Chak Harni road and ongoing construction on a bridge along the Jagti Bamyal road, highlighting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development in remote and hilly regions.
Vision For Inclusive Development
Officials noted that focused efforts over the last five years have significantly enhanced rural connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, aligning with the central government’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”
The PMGSY further continues to transform rural landscapes by ensuring durable and safe infrastructure, fostering growth, and improving access to essential services across the Union Territory.
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps