Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Directs Officers to Examine Proposal for NH Status to Srinagar–Bandipora–Gurez Road

Srinagar, Nov 28: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has formally responded to former MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat’s request seeking National Highway (NH) status for the Srinagar–Bandipora–Gurez Road Corridor.

The Union Minister has directed concerned officers to examine the proposal in light of the existing guidelines.

In the letter dated 10 November 2025, Gadkari acknowledged Bhat’s earlier communication from 10 September 2025 regarding the demand for NH declaration.

“I understand the importance of highway infrastructure projects in your State/Constituency,” the minister wrote, noting that proposals for declaration or upgradation of state roads as National Highways are processed periodically based on criteria such as connectivity requirements and synergy with PM Gati Shakti.

“I have directed concerned officer to examine your proposal in the light of above guidelines,” he added.

The Srinagar–Bandipora–Gurez corridor serves as the only surface link to the remote Gurez Valley and has remained a focal point in regional development discussions.

The Srinagar–Sumbal–Bandipora–Gurez road is a critical lifeline for thousands of residents in north Kashmir, especially those living in the high-altitude Bandipora and Gurez Valley.

The route frequently faces prolonged closure during winter due to heavy snowfall at Razdan Pass, isolating entire communities from essential services.

Over the past decade, the demand has been raised multiple times by political representatives, civil society groups, and local youth organisations.