Srinagar: Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the completion of a 4-lane, 2.35 km Banihal bypass on NH-44, improving traffic flow, reducing congestion, and enhancing regional connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
In a post on X, Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road, Transport & Highways, as per news agency JKNS, wrote, “In Jammu & Kashmir, we have successfully completed a 4-lane, 2.35 km bypass to Banihal town at a cost of ₹224.44 crore. Strategically located on the Ramban–Banihal section of NH-44, the bypass features 4 viaducts spanning 1,513 meters and 3 culverts, effectively addressing the persistent bottleneck caused by roadside markets and shops.
Initially, 2-lane traffic will be released and 4-lane traffic shall be released after junction development within 15 days, it reads.
This critical infrastructure ensures unhindered traffic flow, significantly reducing travel time and congestion for both tourists and defense vehicles en route to the Kashmir Valley. Beyond improving regional connectivity, the bypass strengthens national security logistics and enhances tourism prospects in the region.
Post further reads, under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji, this transformative project contributes to economic growth while elevating Jammu & Kashmir’s status as a premier tourist destination.” (JKNS)
