Big News for J&K: NH-44 is Getting a New Twin Tunnel!

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has announced the approval of a proposal to construct a new two-lane tunnel parallel to the existing Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel on the Chenani–Nashri section of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, marking a significant boost to regional infrastructure.

The proposed tunnel will connect Udhampur and Ramban, helping to ease increasing traffic pressure on the busy NH-44 corridor. Calling it “another good news for Udhampur,” Singh expressed gratitude to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for approving the project.

Sharing the development on X, Singh said the additional tunnel would help decongest the existing route, improve travel efficiency, and strengthen connectivity along the strategic highway. He also acknowledged the efforts of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in facilitating the proposal.

The existing Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel, previously known as the Chenani–Nashri Tunnel, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 2, 2017. Stretching 9.28 km through the lower Himalayas at an altitude of about 1,200 metres, it is one of India’s longest road tunnels and has significantly reduced travel time between Jammu and Srinagar.

Renamed in 2019 in honour of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the tunnel has played a key role in ensuring all-weather connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country.

Officials said the proposed parallel tunnel will enhance traffic capacity, improve road safety, and increase the reliability and resilience of this vital national highway link.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.