Udhampur: MLA Udhampur East Ranbir Singh Pathania on Sunday inaugurated two road development works aimed at strengthening rural connectivity and accelerating socio-economic development across the constituency.
The projects include the laying of road base material (RBM) on the Larey-Smal to Sochi Moh Road in Panchayat Sumwal, Block Majalta, under the CD & P Budget 2026–27, at an estimated cost of ₹4.85 lakh, and the Balpur-Kamdala road project from Km 0.350 to Bani, covering a length of 4.1 kilometres, under PMGSY-IV, Batch-I, 2026–27, in Block Khoon, at a sanctioned cost of ₹887.68 lakh.
Addressing the gathering, Pathania reiterated his vision of developing Udhampur East into a well-connected constituency, with a comprehensive road network reaching every corner of the region. He said road infrastructure was fundamental to economic growth, social integration and balanced regional development.
He said improved road connectivity would facilitate access to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, markets, employment opportunities and other essential public services. Better roads, he added, would empower rural communities, strengthen local economies and accelerate development across various sectors.
The MLA reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening road infrastructure across Udhampur East, particularly in remote and underserved areas. He said the focus remained on developing durable, all-weather roads to ensure that the benefits of development reached every household and no area was left behind.
Speaking about ongoing road development works, Pathania said macadamisation of Dhar Road from Paldhai to Battal was in progress. He added that the remaining stretch from Battal to Kishanpur would be taken up shortly, with efforts underway to ensure the road was brought into proper motorable condition.
He said improved connectivity was essential to address the longstanding difficulties faced by commuters and residents while facilitating the smoother movement of people and goods. The ongoing and proposed projects, he added, reflected a sustained effort to upgrade the road network and create infrastructure for long-term growth.
Local residents welcomed the initiatives and expressed appreciation for the efforts being made to improve connectivity in the area.
Those present on the occasion included Mohan Lal Sharma, Mandal Pradhan; Mohinder Sharma, Mandal Pradhan; Raman Khajuria; Devi Dass; Kulwant Singh; Bishan Dass; and other local residents.
Pathania reiterated that the development of Udhampur East would continue to focus on public welfare, equitable growth and stronger infrastructure, with road connectivity remaining a key priority.
