Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 21: Authorities in District Baramulla made a significant announcement today regarding the ongoing land acquisition for the expansion of the Srinagar-Baramulla National Highway into a four-lane thoroughfare, reporting that the process has reached an impressive 95% completion.
Simultaneously, the officials said, a collaborative effort is underway to ensure a seamless transition for the local population.
ACR Baramulla, Peerzada Mumtaz Ahmad, underscored the pivotal role of the Srinagar-Baramulla four-lane expansion project, branding it as a prestigious initiative of the Government of India.
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He stated, “The land acquisition has successfully reached a 95% completion rate. Landowners are being compensated through the Bhoomi Rashi portal of the Government, which guarantees an effective and transparent process.”
The ACR acknowledged the presence of numerous utilities, including assets of the Power Development Department (PDD) and Public Health Engineering (PHE), along both sides of the road. He reassured the public, saying, “We are actively devising a contingency plan to minimize any inconvenience to the public. When challenges arise, we are fully committed to addressing them in collaboration with other concerned departments.”
He stressed that the project’s timeline is subject to meticulous monitoring at various levels, with the expansion expected to be completed in phases within a two-year timeframe-a commitment that officials are unwaveringly determined to fulfill.
“At Sangrama, a flyover is currently under construction, serving as a vital link connecting three districts. While this construction may temporarily inconvenience the public, we have put in place a contingency plan, including the establishment of a temporary service road to mitigate disruptions until the work is completed.”
Local residents have expressed their satisfaction with the initiation of the four-lane highway project, highlighting its potential to alleviate traffic congestion and stimulate economic activity in the district.
They said that the expansion will also enhance connectivity and boost infrastructure, providing substantial benefits to the people, while raising doubts over Kanispora diversion due to reported “land sinking”.