Cabinet Approves Two Strategic Tunnel Projects in J&K for All-Weather Connectivity
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
The Union Cabinet has approved two major tunnel projects on NH-244 in Jammu and Kashmir, costing around Rs 9,800 crore. This decision is significant as it aims to provide all-weather connectivity between Kashmir Valley and Jammu region, bypassing stretches frequently affected by snow and landslides. The projects are part of the Centre's broader strategy to modernize transport infrastructure in the Union Territory.
Background
NH-244 in Jammu and Kashmir has been prone to disruptions due to adverse weather, isolating areas during winter. The government has previously undertaken projects like Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, Zojila Tunnel, and Z-Morh Tunnel to improve connectivity in the region.
Key facts
Cabinet approved two strategic tunnel projects on NH-244 in J&K at an estimated cost of around Rs 9,800 crore.
The projects are the Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel and Sudhmahadev-Dranga tunnel, along with approach roads, on the Anantnag-Chenani corridor.
The Singhpora-Vailoo stretch is 39 km long and will have 10-km unidirectional twin-tube tunnels.
The Sudhmahadev-Dranga section is 13 km long and will have 8-km twin-tube tunnels.
The projects will be completed in five years and are fully funded by the Centre.
They aim to provide all-weather connectivity between Kashmir Valley and Jammu region, improving access to Chenab Valley.
The tunnels will bypass difficult stretches of NH-244 affected by snowfall, landslides, and adverse weather.
Improved connectivity will boost tourism, trade, and economic activity in the Chenab Valley, and create employment during construction.
The projects will strengthen road connectivity in Doda, Kishtwar, and Udhampur districts and reduce travel time.
Other major road projects in J&K include Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, Zojila Tunnel, and Z-Morh Tunnel.
Prelims pointers
- NH-244: National Highway in Jammu and Kashmir
- Chenani-Nashri Tunnel: Also known as Patnitop tunnel, on NH-44
- Zojila Tunnel: Under construction, will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Leh
- Z-Morh Tunnel: On Srinagar-Sonamarg road
- Anantnag-Chenani corridor: Part of NH-244
- Chenab Valley: Region in Jammu and Kashmir
- Doda, Kishtwar, Udhampur: Districts in Jammu region
- Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir
Mains angles
- Discuss the strategic importance of tunnel projects in J&K for internal security and border infrastructure.
- Examine the role of infrastructure development in the economic growth of hilly and border regions.
- Critically analyze the challenges in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects in difficult terrains.