Chanchal Kumar, newly appointed Managing Director of National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) conducted three day tour to Jammu and Kashmir.During his visit, MD called on Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha and apprised him of status of various ongoing projects and upcoming projects being taken up by NHIDCL in J&K.Pertinently, NHIDCL is mainly involved in upgradation of NH-244 (alternate connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar ) and 4 laning of Jammu Akhnoor Road. There are 12 ongoing projects in Jammu region costing around Rs 5200 crore while there are 5 ongoing projects in Kashmir region worth Rs 10,300. Besides, strategic upcoming projects in J&K including Jammu Akhnoor (Package 1), Jammu Akhnoor (Package – 3 B), Sudhmahadev Dranga Tunnel and Singhpora – Vailoo Tunnel (under Sinthan Pass) are likely to be taken up by NHIDCL soon.MD inspected the Chenani-Sudhmahadev road being constructed by NHIDCL. He also inspected maintenance work on NH-244, construction of 1.57 km long Khellani tunnel and construction of NH-244 from Khellani to Thatri chowk.
During the site visit, MD was accompanied by Riten Kumar Singh, Executive Director NHIDCL Jammu and other senior officers including the concerned General Managers of NHIDCL.Later, MD called on Chief Secretary, Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta during a meeting and apprised him of various ongoing and upcoming projects of NHIDCL in J&K.MD expressed gratitude to Lieutenant Governor and Chief Secretary for their support and cooperation.MD also reviewed the ongoing works in Jammu region during an exclusive meeting with senior officials of NHIDCL including ED, NHIDCL Jammu and concerned General Managers.MD exhorted upon the contractors to complete their projects within the stipulated timelines. He assured that NHIDCL shall provide every support to facilitate smooth execution of Highway construction works. He also directed them to maintain all quality parameters as per guidelines besides taking proper road safety measures during construction. He also cautioned the contractors of strict action as per contract agreement if they fail to achieve set targets.