Ramban, March 1: Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Mohammad Alyas Khan, today conducted a comprehensive inspection of the ongoing fourlaning works on the NH-44 Jammu–Srinagar National Highway from Nashri to Banihal to review progress and address bottlenecks in execution.
During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Senior Superintendent of Police Ramban Arun Gupta, Additional Deputy Commissioner Varunjeet Singh Charak, officers of the district administration, and representatives of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
The DC undertook an extensive tour of the Ramban–Banihal stretch of the NH-44, covering key locations including Digdol tunnels SBT 3 km and NBT 2.5 km, Panthyal and Viaducts at Magarkote, Gangroo, Nachilana and Kishtwari Pather .
The DC closely assessed the progress of tunnel works, viaduct and bridges construction, slope stabilization measures, and other allied infrastructure being developed as part of the prestigious fourlaning project aimed at ensuring all-weather connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar.
While reviewing the pace of work, the DC directed the officers and engineers of NHAI to expedite the construction of tunnels and viaducts under progress between Ramban and Banihal and to ensure their completion within the stipulated timelines.
The Deputy Commissioner also inspected vulnerable locations along the stretch prone to landslides and shooting stones.
He emphasized the urgent need for strengthening protection measures, including retaining walls, breast walls, proper drainage systems, and installation of safety barriers to safeguard commuters and prevent disruptions in traffic movement, especially during adverse weather conditions.
He stressed that these critical infrastructure projects are vital for smooth and safe transportation and must be made functional at the earliest to minimize travel time and enhance road safety.
He further instructed that quality standards should be strictly adhered to and that no compromise on workmanship would be tolerated.
Later, the Deputy Commissioner also inspected various developmental and protection works underway in Ramban town. He reviewed works related to drainage, and protection works being executed to mitigate flood and erosion risks.
The DC passed directions to the Chief Executive Officer Ramban and officers of the Public Works Department to expedite the pace of work and ensure completion within the prescribed timelines.
He strictly directed the officers to maintain high standards of quality and ensure proper supervision at all levels.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, the Deputy Commissioner assured that regular monitoring will continue to ensure timely completion of these significant projects for the benefit of the public.
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