NHAI Kickstarts Chattergala Tunnel Project in J&K

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to commence work on the Rs 4,000-crore Chattergala tunnel project in Srinagar. This development was announced by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari. The tunnel is expected to provide all-weather road connectivity between the Kathua and Doda districts, significantly enhancing the transportation infrastructure in the region.

The project, which was proposed six years ago, had its detailed project report (DPR) prepared by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) agency Beacons. Despite the initial groundwork, progress on the tunnel stalled due to insufficient funding. However, with NHAI now taking the lead, the project is poised to move forward.

NHAI will not only construct the Chattergala tunnel but also develop a new national highway starting from Lakhanpur in Kathua. This highway will traverse notable tourist spots such as Basohli, Bani, Bhaderwah, and Doda, thereby boosting tourism and local economies.

In addition to improving connectivity, the Chattergala tunnel and the new highway are anticipated to cut down travel time significantly. This infrastructure upgrade will ease the movement of goods and people, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the region.

The tunnel and highway project are also expected to generate employment opportunities, providing a substantial economic boost to the local communities. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering development in Jammu and Kashmir.

News by Rahul Yelligetti