New Rajouri-Kashmir Highway Spurs Economic and Touristic Boom
The Indian government is expediting the Rajouri-Thannamandi-Bufliaz-Surankote Road project, enhancing connectivity between the Pir Panjal region and Kashmir. Overseen by the Border Roads Organisation, progress is swift, promising reduced travel times, economic upliftment, and increased tourism. Improved infrastructure is poised to benefit local communities and national security.

- Country:
- India
In an ambitious move to bolster regional connectivity and boost economic growth, the Government of India has accelerated construction on the strategic Rajouri-Thannamandi-Bufliaz-Surankote Road. This initiative is a key component of the Megha Project, designed to seamlessly link the Pir Panjal region with the Kashmir Valley through the historic Mughal Road.
The project is under the oversight of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and execution by TBM Construction Company. It is progressing swiftly, with crucial infrastructural developments such as blacktopping, road widening, surface clearance, and protection wall construction underway across various sections.
Dubbed the lifeline for Rajouri and Poonch's twin border districts, this vital highway promises to shorten routes to the Kashmir Valley, slashing travel time and improving emergency accessibility. Mukhtar Ahmed highlighted the use of high-quality construction materials that will ensure a quicker route to the Kashmir Valley. Meanwhile, Yaser Ahmed noted the boost in tourism for the Rajouri region as a fast-paced project takes shape.
The road project's economic impact is palpable, transforming local economies with employment opportunities for regional youth in roles like engineers and laborers. Moreover, self-employment ventures, such as taxi services between Rajouri and Kashmir Valley, are on the rise.
Tourism prospects are set to flourish with improved access to stunning locales such as Shahdara Sharief, DKG (Dera Ki Gali), Pir Ki Gali, and Doongi Marg, attracting both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts. The enhanced infrastructure also strengthens national border-area facilities, boosting defense mobility and disaster response capabilities. Socially, it enhances integration and access for isolated communities in rugged terrains.
As the Megha Project advances, optimism soars across the Pir Panjal region, keenly anticipating a future of connectivity, prosperity, and peace.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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- Rajouri
- Thannamandi
- Bufliaz
- Surankote
- Road Project
- Kashmir Valley
- Pir Panjal
- Mughal Road
- BRO
- Tourism