Srinagar, June 24, 2025 – The Central Government has approved 19 transformative road and tunnel projects worth Rs 10,637 crore, spanning 296 kilometers of National Highways in Jammu and Kashmir. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for this landmark decision under the Ministry’s 2025-26 Action Plan.
LG Manoj Sinha stated, “My heartfelt gratitude to PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji and Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari Ji for approving these transformative projects that will reshape J&K’s connectivity.” The projects, designed to ensure all-weather connectivity and reduce travel times, include major tunnels and road upgrades that will enhance access to remote and strategic areas, boost tourism, and strengthen local economies.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the approvals a “turning point” for J&K, saying, “I extend my thanks to PM Modi and Minister Gadkari for their continued support in driving J&K toward progress.” He pledged to monitor timely execution. The Awami Ittehad Party also lauded the Sadhana tunnel approval, crediting Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid’s advocacy.
Key Projects Overview
The approved projects include critical tunnels and road enhancements, with significant allocations as detailed below:
| Project Name | Location/Section | Cost (Rs Crore) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peer-Ki-Gali Tunnel | NH-701A (Kashmir to Pir Panjal) | 3,830 | Connects Kashmir Valley with Pir Panjal, ensures all-weather access |
| Sadhana Tunnel | NH-701 (Karnah Valley) | 3,330 | Year-round connectivity to Karnah Valley near LoC |
| Zaznar-Shopian Section | Shopian | 852 | Improves regional connectivity and access |
| Lal Chowk to Parimpora Flyover | Srinagar (4-lane) | 700 | Eases urban traffic, enhances connectivity in Srinagar |
| Trehgam-Chamkote Section | Trehgam-Chamkote | 966 | Strengthens access to border areas |
| Magam Flyover | Narbal-Gulmarg | 445 | Improves tourism connectivity to Gulmarg |
| Qazigund Bypass | Qazigund | 95 | Reduces congestion, facilitates smoother travel |
Strategic and Economic Impact
The projects aim to transform J&K’s infrastructure by:
- Ensuring All-Weather Connectivity: Tunnels like Peer-Ki-Gali and Sadhana will provide uninterrupted access to remote regions, including border areas near the Line of Control.
- Boosting Tourism: Enhanced roads to destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg will complement the recent tourism revival in Pahalgam, which faced a setback after a terror attack in April 2025.
- Supporting Local Economies: Improved logistics and connectivity will spur economic activity, benefiting local businesses and communities.
- Strengthening Strategic Mobility: The infrastructure will facilitate faster movement for troops and supplies in strategically sensitive areas.
Sinha emphasized, “These developments will boost tourism, support local economies, and strengthen logistical capabilities.” The projects align with recent efforts to revitalize tourism, such as the reopening of Pahalgam’s Betab Valley and the launch of Kashmir’s first Vande Bharat train.
Future Prospects
The Centre has also approved feasibility studies for additional projects, including the Panjtarni tunnel and the upgradation of NH-444 from Srinagar to Qazigund. These initiatives signal a long-term commitment to J&K’s development. The recently operational Z-Morh tunnel further underscores the region’s infrastructure progress.
Leadership and Advocacy
The approvals have drawn widespread praise. The Awami Ittehad Party highlighted Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid’s role in advocating for the Sadhana tunnel. Abdullah’s commitment to overseeing project execution ensures that the benefits of these investments will reach the people of J&K swiftly.
This historic investment marks a new chapter for Jammu and Kashmir, promising enhanced connectivity, economic growth, and strategic resilience for the region.
