Union Cabinet Approves ₹9,800 Crore Tunnel Projects to Boost J&K Connectivity

Jammu, Aug 2: The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of the Sudhmahadev–Dranga and Singhpora–Vailoo tunnel projects in Jammu and Kashmir at an estimated cost of ₹9,800 crore, paving the way for improved all-weather connectivity between the Jammu and Kashmir divisions. The projects, cleared during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, include the construction of twin tunnels along with their approach roads. Officials said the projects will be fully funded by the Central Government and are expected to be completed within five years. The Sudhmahadev–Dranga tunnel will be built on the Chenani–Sudhmahadev–Goha–Doda–Khellani National Highway, while the Singhpora–Vailoo tunnel forms part of the Kishtwar–Anantnag Highway. According to officials, the 39-km Singhpora–Vailoo stretch will feature 10-km unidirectional twin-tube tunnels, while the 13-km Sudhmahadev–Dranga stretch will include 8-km twin-tube tunnels. The tunnels are designed to bypass difficult mountainous sections, ensuring year-round connectivity even during heavy snowfall. The projects are expected to strengthen road connectivity in Udhampur, Doda and Kishtwar districts while providing an alternative route between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. They are also anticipated to boost tourism in the Chenab Valley and Udhampur region, including major pilgrimage destinations such as Sudhmahadev and Mantalai. Besides improving civilian travel and economic activity, the tunnel projects hold strategic importance by providing an additional road corridor for defence movement between Jammu and Kashmir. At present, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains the primary all-weather road link between the two regions, while the Mughal Road is operational only during fair weather. The new tunnel projects are expected to significantly enhance connectivity and reduce dependence on the existing highway.