New Tunnels Set To Transform Travel Across Jammu And Kashmir

SRINAGAR, APRIL 14:-Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the recent federal approval for two major tunnel projects on NH-244, noting that these developments represent a massive leap forward for regional infrastructure.

By greenlighting the Sudhmahadev–Dranga and Singhpora–Vailoo tunnels, the government is paving the way for reliable, all-weather connectivity that has long been a priority for local residents.

Abdullah extended his thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, emphasizing that these routes are essential for linking the Chenab Valley with the rest of the country regardless of seasonal weather challenges.

The scale of the project is significant, with the Government of India allocating approximately ₹9,779.42 crore for the construction. The plan includes a 12.85 km twin-tube tunnel between Sudhmahadev and Dranga, alongside an even more ambitious 38.61 km twin-tube structure for the Singhpora–Vailoo stretch.

Both projects will feature modern two-lane approaches and paved shoulders designed to handle heavy traffic flow. This investment is expected to act as a catalyst for economic growth, making it easier for goods and people to move through areas that were previously difficult to access during harsh winters.

This approval follows persistent efforts from the Chief Minister to address long-standing delays in the region’s road network. Having previously reached out to central leadership to advocate for these specific projects, Abdullah highlighted that the lack of progress on these tunnels was a major bottleneck for the socio-economic development of the Chenab region.

By integrating these tunnels into the national highway scheme, the government aims to eliminate the isolation of backward areas and ensure that the infrastructure keeps pace with the broader developmental goals of the nation.