Agencies | New Delhi:
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday announced the completion of two major infrastructure projects on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), aimed at improving connectivity, enhancing road safety and ensuring all-weather access to the Kashmir Valley.
The projects comprise an 810-metre viaduct on the northbound carriageway near Ramsoo in Ramban district and the 3.5-kilometre AT-03 Tunnel on the southbound carriageway connecting Digdole and Panthyal. Built at a combined cost of ₹680 crore, the projects form part of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to modernise the strategically important national highway.
According to the Union Minister, the newly completed viaduct and tunnel bypass one of the most landslide-prone sections of the Ramban–Banihal stretch, significantly improving road safety and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity throughout the year.
Gadkari said the projects will substantially reduce travel time, enhance commuter safety and facilitate the smooth movement of tourists, local residents, defence personnel, freight traffic and the transportation of essential supplies.
The viaduct and tunnel are scheduled to be opened to traffic on July 3, 2026, ahead of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, providing pilgrims with a safer and more reliable route to the Kashmir Valley.
The Minister said the projects would not only strengthen the resilience of Jammu and Kashmir’s highway infrastructure but also boost tourism, trade and the region’s overall economic development by improving year-round connectivity.
