Raja Syed Rather

Srinagar, Feb 18 : The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Wednesday informed the house that several key road upgradation and widening projects are under various stages of survey, approval and execution in downtown Srinagar to address traffic congestion and improve road safety.

Replying to a question by MLA Tanvir Sadiq, the Government informs the legeslative assembly, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), that many arterial roads in downtown Srinagar were developed decades ago with limited Right of Way (ROW) and are now facing heavy traffic pressure due to rapid urbanization and commercial activity.

They said routine maintenance and necessary repairs are being carried out periodically to ensure road safety and trafficability.

Regarding specific corridors, the Government said that the Nowshera–Soura (KZP Road) forms part of the already approved KZP road widening programme. “Structures near Nalabal Bridge stand acquired, while acquisition of remaining structures will be taken up after settlement and finalization of pending court cases,” they said.

For the Saida Kadal to Ashajipora (SMS Road) stretch, they added a survey for widening of approximately 1.75 km is currently underway. “The proposal envisages expansion of the carriageway from 7.50 metres to 21.00 metres. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be submitted after completion of survey and feasibility formalities.”

The Government further said, the preliminary project report for widening and upgradation of the Devi Angan–Hawal Road has been prepared under the CRIF scheme at an estimated cost of Rs 31.25 crore, including land acquisition and utility shifting. “The project will be taken up subject to approval and availability of funds.”

Similarly, the project for Alamgiri Bazar Chowk has been approved under UT Sector 2025–26 for Rs 335 lakh, involving acquisition of five structures and junction redesigning. The DPR is under process for administrative and technical sanction.

“In addition, junction redesigning at Mirza Kamil Sahib (MK Sahib) Chowk has been approved under UT Sector 2025–26 for Rs 135 lakh, with the DPR under process for necessary approvals,” they say.

The Government also said, it is cognizant of the traffic congestion in downtown Srinagar and the need to ensure smooth movement of ambulances, fire services and other emergency vehicles. “It added that road upgradation and improvement works are being undertaken in a phased and prioritized manner based on traffic intensity, public safety and financial feasibility under regular R&B grants and other infrastructure development schemes.”—(KNO)