Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat today to review the progress of ongoing and upcoming National Highway projects across the Jammu region.

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, PWD, Anil Kumar Singh; Engineer-in-Chief PW(R&B); Director Geology and Mining; Regional Officer NHAI J&K; Chief Engineer Project SAMPARK; Regional Officer MoRTH Jammu; Executive Directors NHIDCL Jammu and Srinagar, and other senior officers.
A comprehensive review was held on key projects implemented by NHAI, NHIDCL, and Project SAMPARK. Detailed presentations were made on project progress, land acquisition, DPR approvals, utility shifting, and inter-departmental coordination.
The Deputy CM reviewed major projects including Lakhanpur–Srinagar (NH-44), Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Expressway (NH-5), Jammu and Srinagar Ring Roads, Chenani–Patnitop–Nashri (NH-244), Jammu–Akhnoor (NH-44), and Chenani–Sudhmahadev, Goha–Khellani, and Chatroo–Khanabal (NH-244A).
It was informed that 37 NHAI projects, 8 under Project SAMPARK, and 14 under NHIDCL are at various stages of execution in Jammu province. The Deputy CM expressed satisfaction over certain works but directed agencies to expedite all projects while ensuring strict adherence to quality and timelines.
Reviewing the Mangam–Dodhpathri–Shopian–Surankote (NH-701A) section, he instructed early resolution of DPR and treasury issues. He also directed the fast-tracking of land compensation for Srinagar Ring Road Phase-IIA to avoid delays.
Choudhary underscored the importance of inter-agency coordination and proactive problem-solving to overcome field-level bottlenecks. He said that upgrading highway infrastructure will boost trade, tourism, and socio-economic development across Jammu and Kashmir.
He also reviewed restoration works of roads and bridges, urging speedy completion for public convenience. Appreciating the efforts of engineers and officers, he called for renewed commitment to efficiency, accountability, and excellence in execution.