Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a series of ambitious infrastructure projects aimed at transforming Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) into a hub for fast, sustainable mobility. Among the key developments is the inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel, part of an extensive network of 33 planned tunnels across the region.

The 11.98 km Sonamarg Tunnel, built at a cost of Rs 27.17 billion (approximately $327 million), will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh, bypassing avalanche-prone zones. This critical infrastructure will not only improve travel safety but also facilitate the smooth transport of agricultural goods between Srinagar and Leh, bolstering regional trade.

Gadkari also highlighted the Zojila Tunnel project, an ambitious 14 km tunnel with a Rs 68 billion ($819 million) budget that will reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh by 3.5 hours and provide year-round access. Furthermore, ongoing efforts include major road corridors, such as the Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar Corridor, with an investment of Rs 160 billion ($1.93 billion), expected to cut travel time by five hours.

The Jammu-Chenani-Anantnag Corridor, developed at Rs 140 billion ($1.7 billion), will reduce travel distance by 68 km, while the Surankote-Shopian-Baramulla-Uri Corridor, estimated at Rs 100 billion ($1.2 billion), is expected to be completed by 2027. Gadkari also announced the creation of the Kathua-Basohli-Bhaderwah-Doda Corridor, a 250 km, Rs 34 billion ($411 million) project, and the Srinagar Ring Road, a 104 km road worth Rs 72 billion ($869 million), set for completion later this year.

These projects, part of an estimated Rs 500 billion ($6.05 billion) investment in J&K’s infrastructure, aim to drive the region’s tourism and economic growth. “The improved road network, along with ongoing ropeway projects, will make tourist destinations more accessible,” said Gadkari. He also emphasized the positive environmental impact of these developments, which will reduce fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a “Viksit Bharat.”

The government’s focus on infrastructure is expected to not only boost tourism but also create jobs, improve trade, and strengthen national security. “These projects exemplify resilience and innovation,” Gadkari said, highlighting the government’s commitment to overcoming geographical challenges and ensuring long-term peace and prosperity for J&K.