Srinagar, July 17, 2025 — In a significant boost to Jammu & Kashmir’s infrastructure landscape, the Central Government has sanctioned 19 major infrastructure projects worth ₹10,637 crore. Focused on roads, tunnels, power generation, and urban renewal, this strategic approval under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ 2025–26 action plan is set to redefine connectivity, accelerate economic growth, and ensure all-weather access to remote and strategically sensitive areas near the Line of Control (LoC).
Key Projects Driving Connectivity and Growth
The approved projects encompass 296 kilometers of National Highways, featuring key tunnels and flyovers aimed at reducing travel time, boosting regional commerce, and improving logistical efficiency. Notable projects include:
- Peer-Ki-Gali Tunnel (NH-701A) — ₹3,830 crore for a 7 km tunnel on the Mughal Road, reducing the Poonch–Shopian distance from 84 km to 70 km, ensuring smoother movement of goods and essential supplies.
- Sadhna Tunnel (NH-701) — ₹3,330 crore allocated for a 6.2 km tunnel under the Sadhna Pass (10,269 ft) in Kupwara, guaranteeing all-weather connectivity to border regions like Karnah and Tangdhar, vital for both locals and military logistics.
- Zaznar-Shopian Section (NH-701A) — ₹852 crore project to enhance connectivity across South Kashmir.
- Lal Chowk–Parimpora Flyover — A ₹700 crore, four-lane flyover in Srinagar to ease urban traffic congestion and improve city mobility.
- Trehgam–Chamkote Section (NH-701) — ₹966 crore to link remote areas in Kupwara district.
- Magam Flyover (Narbal–Gulmarg) — ₹445 crore for a four-lane flyover improving access to Gulmarg, promoting tourism development.
- Qazigund Bypass and a two-lane bridge over Rambiara at Shopian (₹71 crore), among others, aim to streamline regional transport.
These projects are designed to provide all-weather routes, facilitate troop mobility, bolster tourism, and stimulate local economies.
Power Projects and Urban Renewal Initiatives
In tandem with connectivity, significant investments are flowing into power infrastructure, aimed at achieving energy security:
- Pakal Dul Power Project (₹8,112 crore, 1,000 MW) and
- Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project (₹4,287 crore, 624 MW) — Both slated for completion by September 2025, harnessing hydropower potential, generating employment, and ensuring reliable electricity for households and industries.
On the urban front, the Jammu and Srinagar Ring Road projects are progressing steadily. The Jammu Ring Road (58 km) is targeted for completion by June 2025, while Srinagar’s Ring Road (Phase 1), currently 65% complete, eyes a December 2025 finish — both pivotal for easing traffic congestion and enhancing urban planning.
Strategic Significance and Economic Vision
These infrastructure initiatives carry deep strategic significance, improving logistical support for security forces and fostering stronger regional connectivity. Aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, the projects enhance multi-modal infrastructure integration across economic zones.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the approvals, calling them a milestone for inclusive development and reaffirming commitment to timely execution in collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Challenges and Commitment to Sustainable Development
While projects like the Srinagar Semi-Ring Road have faced land acquisition delays, with completion rescheduled for June 2025, the government remains committed to sustainable infrastructure growth, balancing development with heritage preservation. The challenging terrain and security environment continue to be addressed with strategic planning and community engagement.
Towards a Viksit Bharat Vision
The ₹10,637 crore infrastructure push marks a pivotal chapter in Jammu & Kashmir’s journey towards progress, connectivity, and prosperity, positioning the Union Territory as a key contributor to India’s Viksit Bharat Vision — a future of integrated growth, peace, and national unity.
