Demolitions begin as expansion of 4-lane Srinagar-Baramulla highway gets under way

Baramulla, Jan 24 : Authorities on Wednesday carried out a demolition drive at Sangrama, Delina to facilitate the seamless continuation of the ongoing 850 crores four-laning project on the Srinagar-Baramulla national highway.

Tehsildar Baramulla, Kifayat Ali, informed the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that they encountered many hurdles and unnecessary delays in the prestigious project.

Despite multiple requests and compensation provided to property owners, they were reluctant to let us remove the structures, which led to this harsh step, he said.

The Tehsildar said the drive successfully removed various illegal constructions and bottlenecks. He said despite prior notices served to those involved in illegal construction, they took advantage of darkness and holidays, which led to the enforcement of the demolition drive.

Ali urged people to follow legal channels for construction and appealed to those engaged in illegal construction to voluntarily dismantle the structures. The drive is aimed at ensuring a smooth and timely progression of the Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri National Highway expansion project, the Tehsildar added.

The action comes days after Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, directed executing agencies to expedite work and address any impediments hindering the construction process.

“The Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri National Highway holds profound significance, not only in terms of transportation but also as a means to foster economic development and provide effective connectivity for the entire region,” the DC said during his on-site visit earlier.

—(KNO)