SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government has clarified that there are no plans to widen the existing roads in Shopian town, as an alternative bypass project has already been approved.
The Shopian Bypass, which will start from Sofanaman and divert traffic away from the main town, has been sanctioned by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Government of India. The project, approved on March 11, 2024, has been allocated Rs 224.44 crore, and work on it is set to commence soon.
As a result of this development, the government has clarified that there are no current plans to widen the road passing through Shopian town, which is part of NH-444. The new bypass is expected to ease congestion and improve traffic management in the area.
Regarding the widening of the Shopian-Srinagar Road, the government has stated that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being finalised and is under submission to MoRTH for approval. Once cleared, this project is expected to enhance connectivity and improve transportation between Shopian and Srinagar. -(KL)
