Mufti concerned over deplorable condition of J&K highway

Ahead of the commencement of the annual Amarnath yatra, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today expressed concern over the deplorable condition of Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
The Chief Minister expressed serious concern over the deplorable condition of road stretch from Ramban to Banihal on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway which usually breaks down, leading to frequent closures, an official spokesman said.
Chairing a high-level meeting of senior civil and police officials, Sayeed reviewed measures being put in place by the administration for good governance, strict vigil on the borders, efficient utilisation of Centrally-sponsored schemes and commitment to social sectors like health and education.

Sayeed asked the state Chief Secretary to take up the matter with the Union Ministry of Surface Transport so that permanent remedial measures are initiated to make it roadworthy.
The Chief Minister also reviewed the preparedness of the administration for smooth conduct of ensuing Amarnath Yatra by ensuring roadworthiness of National Highway.
"Improvement in condition of roads on Highway and restoration of important public utility services that have been affected by prolonged spells of rain should be the prime concern of the divisional administration," he said, while stressing the need to improve the condition of alternate highways like Mughal Road and Batote-Doda-Kishtwar road on Highway IB.

He was also informed by the Divisional Commissioner about the sliding away of certain portions of road on highway due to persistent rains which have rendered it vulnerable, leading to possible disruption in movement of essentials supplies to remote areas during road closure.