Jugal Kishore Sharma, a Member of Parliament from Jammu & Kashmir, has written to the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, expressing concerns about the proposed extension of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway to Tarakote Marg.
Sharma highlighted the potential negative impact on local businesses and the cultural experience of pilgrims visiting Katra, a major pilgrimage town. He emphasized that extending the expressway to Tarakote Marg would bypass existing markets in Katra, Banganga, and Charanpaduka, leading to economic losses for local shopkeepers and residents.
The MP also noted that diverting traffic away from Katra would deprive pilgrims of the opportunity to experience the town’s unique hospitality and cultural offerings.
Sharma’s letter cited widespread protests and hunger strikes among Katra residents, demonstrating the strong opposition to the proposed extension.
He urged Gadkari to intervene and suspend the extension plans, requesting that the expressway be restricted to the Intermodal Station (IMS) in Katra to protect the interests of the local community.
This situation highlights the importance of considering the social and economic impacts of infrastructure projects on local communities. Balancing the need for improved connectivity with the preservation of local businesses and cultural heritage is crucial for sustainable development.
