Ramban, June 29,2026-The newly constructed 3.5-km AT-03 South Bound Tunnel on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) is set to be opened for traffic in the coming days, providing commuters with a safer, faster, and all-weather route ahead of the Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026.
The tunnel connects Panthyal to Digdool, bypassing the accident-prone Khooni Nala and Panthyal stretches, which are frequently affected by landslides, shooting stones, and traffic disruptions, especially during adverse weather conditions. The project is expected to significantly improve traffic movement on the strategic Jammu–Srinagar corridor and enhance the safety of pilgrims travelling for the annual Amarnath Yatra.
Speaking about the project, Harish Kunja, Technical Manager of Sarala Project Works Ltd, said the AT-03 South Bound Tunnel is 3.5 kilometres long and has been constructed at a cost of ₹846 crore.
“As you can see behind me, this is the AT-3 South Bound Tunnel, which is 3.5 km long. The total project cost is ₹846 crore. We are now preparing to open it for traffic ahead of the Amarnath Yatra. The work has been completed, and finishing and support activities are still underway, but the project is almost ready for full traffic movement,” he said.
Officials said only final finishing touches and support works remain before the tunnel is formally opened. Once operational, it will reduce travel delays, improve road safety, and ensure smoother movement of vehicles on one of the country’s most vital national highways.
The opening of the tunnel is expected to be a major infrastructure milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, strengthening connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country while ensuring uninterrupted travel during the Amarnath Yatra and beyond.
