Ritika Trehan meets Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi

• Discusses pressing issues crucial for J&K's economic growth and connectivity

NEW DELHI: Chief Spokesperson BJP Mahila Morcha J&K UT Ritika Trehan today met with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to discuss pressing issues in Jammu and Kashmir that fall under his ministry's purview especially infrastructure development, which is crucial for J&K's economic growth and connectivity. By engaging with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Ritika Trehan aims to ensure that J&K's concerns are addressed, and the region benefits from the Ministry's initiatives. 

Ritika during the meeting highlighted J&K's rugged terrain and limited connectivity hinder its economic progress urging Gadkari's Ministry can play a vital role in improving road networks, highways, and bridges. She said J&K's roads are prone to accidents due to challenging terrain and weather conditions urging Union Minister to focus on implementing road safety measures and improving emergency response systems. 

Ritika said infrastructure development projects can generate employment opportunities for local youth, contributing to J&K's economic growth and stability.She brought to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's attention the alarming frequency of road accidents in Jammu and Kashmir, which have resulted in the loss of precious lives demanding enhancing safety measures, such as installing crash barriers, improving road lighting, and enforcing traffic regulations.Ritika sought to ensure that the government takes concrete steps to prevent road accidents and save lives in Jammu and Kashmir. 

Ritika emphasized the need for good roads in rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir to boost the local economy. She said better roads will facilitate the transportation of goods, services and people, thereby increasing economic activity and job opportunities in rural areas. Good roads will enable easier access to essential services like healthcare, education and markets, significantly improving the quality of life for rural residents. Upgraded roads will connect rural areas to major towns and cities, making it easier for people to access amenities, services and opportunities, added Ritika. 

Ritika appreciated Gadkari for playing significant role in strengthening India's road network, including the construction of flyovers and national highways across the country, including Jammu and Kashmir.Gadkari's initiatives have transformed the region's infrastructure, including upgradation and widening of this critical highway has improved connectivity between the two capital cities.Udhampur-Banihal Highway has enhanced road connectivity in the region, facilitating smoother transportation of goods and people. Srinagar-Leh Highway has improved connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region.These projects have not only improved road connectivity but also boosted economic growth, tourism and job opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir, added Ritika. 

Ritika said Nitin Gadkari's tenure as the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways from 2014 to 2025 has been marked by significant achievements and transformative initiatives. Under his leadership, the Ministry has achieved unprecedented growth in highway construction, with an average annual construction of over 10,000 km. Bharatmala Pariyojana developed 83,677 km of highways, including economic corridors, inter-corridor routes and feeder routes. 

Ritika further said that Gadkari has introduced various measures to improve road safety, such as the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, and the implementation of intelligent transportation systems.He has encouraged the adoption of alternative fuels, like ethanol, bio-CNG, and electric vehicles, to reduce India's dependence on fossil fuels.Gadkari's vision, leadership, and commitment to infrastructure development have had a profound impact on India's growth story. His efforts have improved connectivity, boosted economic growth, and enhanced the quality of life for millions of Indians, added Ritika.