Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid, who recently received court permission to attend parliamentary sessions, has formally requested the establishment of a dedicated green corridor for fruit-laden trucks along National Highway-44. The appeal was made directly to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, during a meeting held on Friday. The initiative aims to address the significant economic losses faced by Jammu and Kashmir‘s fruit growers due to frequent traffic disruptions during the crucial harvesting season.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that Engineer Rashid, representing the Awami Itihaad Party, highlighted several pressing infrastructure and public welfare issues pertinent to the Jammu and Kashmir region during his discourse with Minister Gadkari. A primary concern articulated was the recurring traffic congestion experienced between Qazigund, Banihal, and Udhampur. These delays, according to the MP, are severely impacting the timely transportation of highly perishable fruit produce, leading to substantial financial detriment for the growers.
Engineer Rashid emphasized the pivotal role of the horticulture sector in the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, noting that it provides livelihood to approximately seven lakh families. He explained to the Union Minister that delays in transit not only result in a decline in the quality of the fruit but also lead to diminished market prices and increased transportation expenditures. To mitigate these issues, the MP urged the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to implement a system that ensures priority movement for fruit-laden trucks via a dedicated green corridor. Furthermore, he called for the creation of an effective coordination mechanism involving key stakeholders such as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the Traffic Police, the Civil Administration, and the Horticulture Department to streamline the process.
Beyond the immediate concern of fruit transportation, Engineer Rashid also brought to the Minister’s attention the proposed alignment for National Highway-701A, which is planned to connect Magam, Beerwah, Arizal, and Doodhpathri. He advocated for the retention and subsequent upgrade of the existing alignment maintained by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) rather than the construction of an entirely new bypass. According to the MP’s submission, upgrading the current road would necessitate minimal widening, thereby reducing the need for extensive land acquisition, minimizing displacement of residents, and lowering overall project costs. This approach, he argued, would also serve to protect valuable agricultural land and existing orchards. The proposal, as stated in a release from Rashid’s party, has garnered support from local residents and is expected to significantly improve connectivity to areas including Beerwah, Doodhpathri, and Yousmarg.
In addition to these infrastructure-related matters, Engineer Rashid also requested the Union Minister to expedite the upgradation of the eight-kilometre stretch of road connecting Paharthan to Kralnewah Crossing via Chotribaal. He described this particular road as being of critical importance for enhancing local connectivity and addressing the long-standing transport needs of the residents in that area. The MP underscored the necessity of this upgrade to facilitate smoother movement of people and goods, thereby contributing to the overall development of the region.
Sources indicate to Tahir Rihat that Minister Nitin Gadkari listened attentively to the issues presented by Engineer Rashid. The Union Minister assured the Baramulla MP that the Ministry would thoroughly examine the matters raised and consider them sympathetically. The discussions underscore the ongoing efforts to improve critical infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, with a particular focus on supporting the region’s vital economic sectors and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The potential implementation of a green corridor for fruit trucks could represent a significant step forward in ensuring the economic viability of the horticulture industry, while the review of highway alignments reflects a commitment to balanced development that considers environmental and social impacts.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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