Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced on Monday that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will imminently commence the construction of the Rs 4,000-crore Chattergala tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir. This significant infrastructure project is poised to enhance regional connectivity and economic prospects.
The announcement came during a review meeting chaired by Gadkari, with Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Jitendra Singh, also in attendance. An official spokesperson revealed that the Chattergala tunnel project, a crucial undertaking costing approximately Rs 4,000 crore, will be executed by NHAI. Additionally, public-demanded underpasses on the Kathua express corridor section will be prioritized.
Singh, expressing gratitude towards Gadkari, noted that the proposal for the Chattergala tunnel was initiated around six years ago. The detailed project report was prepared by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), but a lack of funds had stalled the commencement of work. The recent decision to entrust NHAI with the construction marks a significant development in moving the project forward.
The new national highway, stretching from Lakhanpur to Basohli-Bani to Bhaderwah-Doda, is anticipated to be a transformative development. Singh highlighted that this highway will provide all-weather connectivity between Lakhanpur and Doda district, traversing notable tourist spots such as Basohli and Bani. The new route is expected to substantially reduce travel time and foster business growth, employment opportunities, and revenue generation in the region.
Singh also referred to the under-construction Delhi-Katra express corridor, recalling the extensive efforts that began in 2015 to get the project approved. Initial delays occurred due to competing demands from Punjab for a similar corridor between Delhi and Amritsar. However, a compromise was eventually reached, finalising an express corridor connecting Delhi and Katra with stopovers in Amritsar and Kathua.
The corridor is now in its final construction phase. Singh expressed satisfaction that public demands for underpasses at strategic locations such as Hatli, Rajbagh, Chann Arorian, Chapper, and Kootah have been acknowledged and incorporated into the project for the convenience of local residents.
The Chattergala tunnel project is set to be a game changer for Jammu and Kashmir, enhancing connectivity and catalysing socio-economic development. The prompt initiation of this project reflects the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and regional growth, aligning with broader national objectives of improved transportation networks and economic upliftment.
