Srinagar, October 31, 2025 – In a significant boost to the Union Territory’s connectivity and urban mobility, the Central Government has approved a ₹700 crore four-lane flyover project connecting Lal Chowk to Parimpora Junction in Srinagar, as part of 19 major national highway initiatives totaling ₹10,637 crore. The approval, announced earlier this year, aims to alleviate chronic traffic congestion in the summer capital while enhancing overall infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).The flyover, spanning 7 kilometers along National Highway-1 (NH-1), was greenlit by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) during its June 19, 2025, meeting on the 2025-26 Action Plan for J&K’s national highways. Officials confirmed that topographical surveys and geotechnical investigations are currently underway, with the draft alignment, plan, and profile in preparation for final submission to the ministry. Once approved, the structural design will be sanctioned, paving the way for tendering and execution.”This ambitious project will dramatically improve traffic flow in Srinagar, reducing commute times and supporting economic growth in the region,” stated a senior official from the Public Works (R&B) Department. The initiative responds to long-standing demands for better urban infrastructure, highlighted by local legislators including MLA Tariq Hameed Karra during assembly discussions.
Broader Infrastructure Push: 19 Projects to Transform J&K Connectivity
The flyover is one of 19 mega projects approved by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, encompassing 296 kilometers of roads, tunnels, and bridges designed to enhance accessibility, boost tourism, and strengthen strategic links in the region. Key highlights include:
| Project | Description | Estimated Cost (₹ Crore) | Length (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peer-Ki-Gali Tunnel (NH-701A) | All-weather connectivity between Kashmir Valley and Rajouri-Poonch | 3,830 | 8.5 (tunnel) + approaches |
| Sadhana Tunnel (NH-701) | Strategic tunnel linking Kupwara to Karnah sector | 3,330 | 7.5 (tunnel) + approaches |
| Zaznar-Shopian Section (NH-701A) | Upgradation to two-lane paved shoulder | 852 | 25 |
| Trehgam-Chamkote Section (NH-701) | Widening and strengthening | 966 | 42 |
| Four-Lane Magam Flyover (Narbal-Gulmarg Section, NH-701A) | Elevated corridor to ease tourist traffic | 445 | 4.5 |
| Qazigund Bypass | Alternative route to reduce congestion on NH-44 | 95 | 12 |
| Two-Lane Bridge over Rambiara River (Shopian, NH-444) | New bridge for improved local access | 71 | 0.5 |
| Lal Chowk-Parimpora Four-Lane Flyover (NH-1) | Urban elevated road in Srinagar | 700 | 7 |
These projects, collectively valued at over ₹10,000 crore, prioritize all-weather roads, tunnel constructions, and safety enhancements. Additional approvals cover Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for future works, including the widening of NH-444 from Srinagar to Qazigund (63 km), a Shopian-Magam road (75 km), and a 10.8 km Panjtarni tunnel with 31 km approaches to connect Amarnath pilgrimage routes from Baltal and Pahalgam.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister Gadkari for the approvals, emphasizing their role in fostering development and resilience in the region. With preparatory works progressing, residents anticipate groundbreaking soon, marking a new era for J&K’s transport network.This article is based on official disclosures from the J&K Public Works Department and MoRTH announcements.
