Central govt's mega infrastructure drive reshapes Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway, border districts step into a new era
Rajouri, Dec 15
The Jammu–Rajouri–Poonch highway is undergoing a historic transformation under the Central Government’s focused infrastructure push, with development works progressing at an unprecedented pace. The ambitious projects aim to improve connectivity, enhance safety, and accelerate economic growth in the sensitive border districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
In Rajouri’s Manjakote region, the construction of bypass roads, massive bridges, double-lane highways and tunnels is in full swing. These large-scale works are being supported by substantial central funding running into lakhs and crores of rupees, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernising border infrastructure.
For decades, Rajouri, being a strategically important border district, remained hampered by poor road connectivity. Residents were often forced to undertake long, exhausting and unsafe journeys due to narrow roads and frequent bottlenecks. With the new infrastructure projects nearing completion, travel time between Jammu and Poonch is expected to reduce to nearly five hours, a significant improvement from the earlier 8-10 hour ordeal.
Describing the transformation as a dream turning into reality, local residents said they never imagined witnessing such modern road infrastructure in the region. From struggling for basic link roads to now seeing world-class bridges and double-lane highways, the change is being termed revolutionary. Many have expressed deep gratitude to the Central Government for prioritising border areas and laying a strong foundation for growth, safety and prosperity.
Sharing his views, Asif Khan told IANS, “The construction is underway, and the work is progressing at a rapid pace.â€
The National Highway 144A Megha project is set to provide a major boost to the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. Once fully completed, the upgraded highway will reduce travel time between Poonch, Rajouri and Jammu from nearly six hours to just three to four hours. The Rajouri–Jammu journey, in particular, is expected to come down to around 2.5 hours.
The new road alignment will also shorten the distance by about 9.5 kilometres compared to existing routes, directly benefiting local commuters. Additionally, the project has generated employment opportunities for local youth, including engineers, equipment operators, drivers, helpers and labourers. Improved connectivity is expected to boost tourism in the Pir Panjal region, further driving economic development and long-term growth.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone whose family is from the region, this news brings tears of joy. My grandparents always talked about the difficult journeys. Modern bridges and tunnels will not just connect places, they will connect hearts and opportunities. A big thank you to the engineers and workers on the ground.
Good step, but I hope the focus is also on long-term maintenance. We've seen many highways deteriorate quickly after construction. Also, the article mentions employment for local youth - that's crucial. Development should be sustainable and inclusive.
Infrastructure is the backbone of any region's growth. Improving this highway will have a multiplier effect - boosting tourism, trade, and access to healthcare and education. Strategic border development is a smart national investment.
Finally! The Pir Panjal region has immense tourism potential. Once the highway is complete, I'm planning a road trip from Jammu to Poonch. Better roads mean safer travel and more visitors, which will help local hotels and businesses thrive.
My cousin is an engineer working on this project. He says the scale is massive and the pace is really fast. It's not just about concrete and steel; it's about changing lives. Shorter travel means students can commute, patients can reach hospitals, and families can connect more easily. ðŸ™
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