The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has reached a significant milestone by breaking through the 2.79-kilometre Sungal tunnel on the Jammu-Poonch national highway.
This achievement is a crucial step forward in advancing key defence infrastructure projects and fostering socio-economic development in the region. Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, the chief of BRO, expressed optimism that this strategically important project will be completed within the next couple of years. The Sungal tunnel, which connects Akhnoor and Poonch, is the second of four planned tunnels on the strategic national highway 144-A, also known as the Golden Arc Road, to achieve this milestone. Previously, the 700-metre Naushera tunnel reached a similar breakthrough on January 28. Additionally, tunnelling work is currently underway on the 260-metre Kandi tunnel and the 1.1-kilometre Bhimber Gali tunnel. Lt Gen Srinivasan highlighted that both the Naushera and Sungal tunnels are slated for completion by the end of this year. He emphasised that the 200-kilometre Akhnoor-Poonch section of the highway is expected to significantly boost the overall economic prosperity of the border region by improving connectivity and reducing travel time.
The completion of these tunnels is part of a broader initiative to enhance the infrastructure of national highway 144-A, which plays a critical role in both civilian and military logistics. The ongoing progress in this project is expected to expedite its overall completion by 2026, according to officials. The Sungal tunnel’s breakthrough not only marks a notable engineering feat but also underscores the BRO’s commitment to enhancing India’s defence preparedness and regional development. The improved infrastructure is anticipated to facilitate smoother and more efficient transportation, contributing to the economic upliftment of the border areas.
As the project progresses, the BRO continues to demonstrate its capability in executing complex infrastructure projects under challenging conditions. The successful completion of the Sungal tunnel and the ongoing work on the remaining tunnels are poised to transform the connectivity landscape of the Jammu-Poonch corridor. The advancements in this project reflect a broader strategy to fortify national defence infrastructure while simultaneously promoting socio-economic growth in strategically significant regions. The meticulous planning and execution of these projects by the BRO reinforce its pivotal role in nation-building and regional development.
“This is a great moment for all of us as the Jammu-Poonch link, advancing rapidly, is on track for completion in the next couple of years,” Lt Gen Srinivasan told reporters at the breakthrough ceremony of the Sungal tunnel. “After completion of the vital road project, the time travel between Jammu and Poonch will be reduced by almost half from the present eight hours. The road widening and the four tunnels will provide all weather connectivity and provide a safe journey to the people,” he said.
