Improving Jammu-Srinagar Roads: Key Tunnel Projects for Better Connectivity

India is working hard to improve roads in Jammu and Kashmir. The goal is to make them usable all year round. The government is taking a fresh look at two important tunnel projects: Singhpora-Vailoo and Sudhmahadev-Dranga. This comes after a recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The aim is to boost connectivity in the region, no matter the weather.

Revisiting Important Tunnel Projects

These projects plan to create a new route between Jammu and Srinagar using National Highway 244. They have been waiting for approval for over ten years. The updated plans will soon be discussed by the Public Investment Board (PIB).

Why These Tunnels Matter

These tunnels are vital for military movements and safer travel to border areas. Unlike the current Jammu-Srinagar NH 44, which is close to the Line of Control and faces more terror threats, these new tunnels will offer safer, all-weather routes.

Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel

• Length: Nearly 10 km
• Connects: Ahlan in Kokernag with Chatroo in Kishtwar
• Bypasses: The dangerous 12,000-feet Sinthan Pass
• Benefits: Year-round connectivity between Kashmir Valley and Chenab region

Sudhmahadev-Dranga Tunnel

• Length: 8 km
• Type: One-way route
• Connects: Sudhmahadev in Udhampur and Khellani in Doda
• Reduces distance: From 100 km to 32 km
• Benefits: Improves travel safety and cuts time and transport costs

Mughal Road to Regain Its Historic Importance

The government is also focusing on 19 major road and tunnel projects worth Rs 10,637 crore. One key project is the Peer Ki Gali tunnel on the historic Mughal Road. This road connects Shopian in the Kashmir Valley with Poonch in Jammu.

Peer Ki Gali Tunnel

• Purpose: Make the 84-km Mughal Road usable all year round
• Benefits: Provide a crucial alternative to NH-44

The Mughal Road project started in the 1970s under Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. It was revived in 2003 by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Traffic was allowed by 2009, but the road still closes in winter due to heavy snowfall.

Sadhana Tunnel

• Estimated Cost: Rs 3,330 crore
• Connects: Kupwara with the border region of Karnah
• Benefits: Brings much-needed relief to residents in this remote northern area