Srinagar, Aug 7 (KNS) ; Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Er. Rashid, on Friday called on Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, urging the establishment of a dedicated 'Green Corridor' to ensure the smooth passage of fruit-laden trucks on the strategic National Highway-44 during the ongoing harvesting season.

According to a statement issued by Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi, MP Rashid raised several key infrastructure issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir during his meeting with Gadkari at his Parliament chamber.

MP Rashid highlighted that the horticulture sector, which sustains nearly seven lakh families, is the backbone of the Union Territory's economy. He pointed out that repeated traffic disruptions on regulated stretches of NH-44, particularly at Qazigund and Banihal, are causing heavy losses to fruit growers by delaying the transportation of highly perishable produce.

He urged the Minister to prioritize the movement of fruit trucks through a dedicated corridor and establish an effective coordination mechanism involving the NHAI, Traffic Police, Civil Administration, and the Horticulture Department to ensure uninterrupted movement during the harvest season.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Baramulla MP Rashid also raised the issue of the proposed alignment of NH-701A (Magam–Beerwah–Arizal–Doodhpathri Highway). He requested the Minister to retain and upgrade the existing BRO-maintained alignment instead of constructing a new bypass, arguing that the existing route could be upgraded with minimal widening and would reduce land acquisition and project costs while protecting agricultural land .

Additionally, he requested the Union Minister to expedite the development of the 8-kilometre road from Paharthan to Kralnewah Crossing, stating the project is vital for meeting the long-pending transportation needs of the local population.

The party spokesperson further said in the statement that the Union Minister gave a patient hearing to all the issues raised by the Member of Parliament and assured him that the Ministry would examine them sympathetically. The AIP spokesperson added that the party remains committed to raising public welfare issues through democratic means.(KNS)