J&K's ₹10,637 Crore Makeover: Tunnels, Flyovers, and Connectivity Boom!

The Central Government has approved 19 major infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir, totaling an investment of ₹10,637 crore, as announced jointly by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha. The approved projects aim to significantly improve regional connectivity, particularly in remote and strategically important areas.

Among the key highlights are two major tunnels designed to ensure year-round access:

The Pir Ki Gali tunnel, spanning 9 km and costing ₹3,830 crore, will connect Kashmir with the Pir Panjal region via the historic Mughal Road, which is often closed during winter due to snow and avalanches.

A second tunnel, measuring 7 km and costing ₹3,330 crore, will be constructed at Sadhna Pass, enhancing access to the Karnah region in Kupwara, near the Line of Control (LoC), and significantly reducing travel time.

In addition, the Centre has approved the 28-km Zaznai–Shopian road project at a cost of ₹853 crore, further strengthening inter-district connectivity.

Urban infrastructure in Srinagar and nearby areas will also see major upgrades with the clearance of three new flyovers:

A 7-km, four-lane flyover from Lal Chowk to Qamarwari, estimated at ₹700 crore.

A 1-km flyover at Panthachowk costing ₹105 crore.

A 2-km flyover at Magam, with an investment of ₹445 crore.

Another significant project is the Trehgam–Chamkote road in Kupwara, approved at ₹966 crore, aimed at enhancing access in northern Kashmir.

These projects collectively mark a substantial step toward improving infrastructure, connectivity, and accessibility in the Union Territory, with strategic and socio-economic benefits for the region.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.