Divisional Commissioner, Sanjeev Verma on Friday inspected the readiness of Phase-I of the Jammu Ring Road, connecting Akhnoor Road to Kot Bhalwal, which is set to be completed by mid-July.

National Highways Authority of India is constructing the Jammu Ring Road starting from Raya Morh Km. -0+687 to Km. 57+568. Akhnoor Road to Kot Bhalwal stretch � the first phase of the Ring Road project, would significantly reduce the travel time for people traveling between Northern Parts of Jammu to the other parts. It would also reduce the congestion of Jammu City.

IDSE Regional Officer (J&K), NHAI, Hem Raj, who was also present during the visit, informed that Jammu Ring Road is a prestigious national Project under Bharat Mala Parriyojna (scheme) of Government of India aimed at to decongest Jammu City. It is being constructed by EPC Contractor i.e. M/s Gayatri-KMB JV appointed by NHAI and its work started in the Year 2018.

The 8 Km long first phase to be completed in July starts from its Junction with NH-144 (Akhnoor Road) where the Jammu Ring Road interjects through a flyover connecting to Akhnoor road and cross the Ranbir Canal over steel girder bridge. This Phase ends in Bhalwal area, 2 Km ahead of the Kot Bhalwal Road up to the viaduct.

Two 4-lane tunnels and viaducts are under construction as part of Phase-V of the project, which will connect this road to Jagti. The Civil Construction Cost of the Project is Rs. 1339 Crore.

Project Director NHAI, Jammu, Ajay Kumar Rajak, informed that due to fast economic development, urbanization, and population growth, the existing NH-44 has virtually become a city road. Jammu city is witnessing a huge traffic Jam. Due to this scenario, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) took up the construction of the Ring Road which has now achieved about 35% progress.

The Ring Road/Bypass around Jammu City has been divided into six phases and the work on all the phases is in progress.

The completion of this Phase will open a new door of development in the border and rural areas. The access of the Army will be faster and easier for the border areas. Also, the Army will be more capable to face the enemy on the ground and thereof protect the Nation more efficiently.