SRINAGAR: The Jammu-Akhnoor four-lane project, a critical infrastructure development along NH-144A, is nearing completion and is slated for phased handover by the middle of 2026, according to an announcement made by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary. The project, which aims to significantly enhance connectivity between the regions of Jammu and Akhnoor, has been the subject of discussion in the Legislative Assembly.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Deputy Chief Minister, in response to a query from MLA Mohan Lal, detailed the targeted completion timelines for the various packages comprising the project. Package-I is anticipated to be finished by March 31, 2026. Package-II has already been completed, indicating progress in earlier stages. Further timelines include the completion of Package-IIIA by April 30, 2026, and Package-IIIB by July 31, 2026, pointing towards a staggered operationalization of the completed sections.
The Deputy Chief Minister attributed certain delays encountered during the project’s execution to a confluence of factors. A significant challenge has been the project alignment passing through densely populated urban areas within Jammu city. This urban corridor has led to considerable traffic congestion, necessitating restricted working hours for construction crews. Frequent interruptions arising from traffic management measures and essential canal diversion works have also impacted the pace of progress.
Additional impediments to the project’s smooth progression have included a slow execution pace in some segments, coupled with inadequate mobilization of the required manpower and construction machinery. Technical constraints encountered at specific stretches have also contributed to the delays. The Deputy Chief Minister further elaborated on the impact of labour shortages and delays in the land acquisition processes, which are critical for infrastructure projects of this scale.
The relocation of existing utilities and the removal of encroachments from the project path have also presented challenges that have affected the overall execution timelines. Furthermore, unseasonal rainfall at various points along the corridor has adversely impacted construction activities, leading to further slowdowns. The disbursement of compensation to landowners affected by land acquisition has also experienced delays, contributing to slippages in the project schedule.
Despite these multifaceted challenges, the government has affirmed that work is progressing steadily on a phased basis. The completion of the Jammu-Akhnoor four-lane project is expected to bring about a substantial improvement in the transportation network, facilitating smoother and faster movement of people and goods between the two important locations in Jammu province. The project is a key component of the region’s infrastructure development agenda, aimed at fostering economic growth and improving commuter experience.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
