
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 21: Ritika Trehan, Chief Spokesperson of J&K BJP Mahila Morcha, today met with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari at New Delhi.
The meeting focused on improving road networks, highways and bridges to enhance connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.
Trehan highlighted the challenges posed by J&K’s rugged terrain and inadequate road infrastructure, which hamper economic progress. She emphasized the urgent need for road safety measures and emergency response systems, citing the high frequency of accidents due to difficult terrain and weather conditions. She urged the Minister to implement measures such as crash barriers, better road lighting, and stricter traffic regulations to prevent road fatalities.
The BJP leader also underscored the significance of rural connectivity, stating that improved roads would facilitate transportation, enhance economic activity, and create job opportunities for local youth. She noted that better roads would provide rural residents with improved access to healthcare, education, and markets, significantly improving their quality of life.
Trehan lauded Gadkari’s pivotal role in strengthening India’s road network, particularly in J&K. She praised projects such as the upgradation of the Udhampur-Banihal Highway and the Srinagar-Leh Highway, which have significantly improved connectivity, facilitated smoother transportation, and boosted tourism and economic growth in the region.
She acknowledged the Union Minister’s transformative tenure from 2014 to 2025, during which the Ministry witnessed record-breaking achievements, including the construction of over 10,000 km of highways annually under the Bharatmala Pariyojana. She also commended Gadkari’s initiatives to promote alternative fuels, intelligent transportation systems, and road safety reforms under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019.
Trehan concluded by expressing confidence in Gadkari’s continued commitment to infrastructure development, stating that his efforts have had a profound impact on India’s connectivity and economic progress. She urged the Ministry to expedite ongoing and upcoming projects to ensure Jammu and Kashmir reaps the benefits of enhanced infrastructure.