Infrastructure Push for Jammu and Kashmir

Source:  SS

Context: The Central Government, on June 24, 2025, sanctioned 19 major infrastructure projects worth ₹10,637 crore in Jammu and Kashmir.

• Four projects—Pir Ki Gali Tunnel, Sadhna Tunnel, Zaznar-Shopian Road, and Trehgam-Chamkote Road—stand out for their strategic and security importance.

About Infrastructure Push for Jammu and Kashmir:

• What It Is?
  • A significant road and tunnel infrastructure initiative by the Central Government to boost connectivity, security, and development in border and remote regions of Jammu and Kashmir.

• Total approved outlay: ₹10,637 crore
• Implementing agencies: BRO (Border Roads Organisation) and earlier NHIDCL (now relieved of key tunnels)

• Key Projects and Features:
  1. Pir Ki Gali Tunnel (Mughal Road):

• 1. • Length: 9 km
     • Location: Between Chatta Pani (Poonch) and Zaznar (Shopian)
     • Purpose: Enables all-weather connectivity on historic Mughal Road
     • Strategic Value: Alternate access to Kashmir, vital in emergencies, boosts tourism & military mobility.

2. Sadhna Tunnel (Kupwara-Karnah):

• 1. • Length: 7 km
     • Significance: Connects Kupwara to Karnah, near the Line of Control (LoC)
     • Use: Ensures round-the-year access, especially for troop movement and locals during snow-induced closures.

3. Zaznar-Shopian Road:

• 1. • Length: 28 km
     • Function: Part of proposed Surankote–Shopian–Baramulla Highway
     • Benefits: Improves valley-to-border linkage, reduces reliance on NH44.

4. Trehgam-Chamkote Road:

• 1. • Length: 68 km
     • Stretch: Kupwara to Teetwal near the LoC
     • Purpose: Enhances border area infrastructure, supports military logistics and civilian movement.

• Strategic Importance:

• • Supports border area development and military preparedness.
  • Enhances connectivity in LoC zones like Karnah, Teetwal.
  • Reduces pressure on NH44, currently the sole valley highway.
  • Enables faster disaster response, troop mobilisation, and economic access.