Mughal Road to be thrown open by March next year

The prestigious project , that was to be completed by 2007, got delayed due to several financial and administrative reasons. Wildlife conservationists opposed the road, that runs through the Heerpura wildlife sanctuary. Taking the matter to the Supreme Court, they had even objected to the wide-scale deforestation. They pleaded that the habitat of the highly endangered Markhor goats, which are found only this area, will be disturbed. In its reply, the state Government had said precautions were being taken for their conservation and land has been identified for afforestation.

Although the project was conceived in 1980, the onset of militancy in the Valley had stalled work which was resumed in October 2005. Then too, there was delay in utilisation of funds.

This alternate highway between Srinagar and rest of the country will also support greater inter-regional and economic and cultural exchanges between Jammu and Srinagar. It will end the geographical isolation of many areas and will help make strong the economy of the regions of Rajouri and Poonch districts, which do not have any direct contact with Kashmir.