The Singhpora Vailoo Tunnel project, aimed at enhancing connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, is set to be re-sanctioned by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). This announcement follows the cancellation of the previous bidding process due to administrative issues.The Officials recently informed the House that the Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel, initially sanctioned under the Bharatmala Pariyojna Phase-I, had been paused after the phase was discontinued. The project is now set to be re-sanctioned under the NH(O) scheme of MoRTH, allowing the project to proceed once the necessary approvals are granted.
With this development, the next step will be the invitation of new bids for the tunnel’s construction, following the sanctioning of the project.The Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel is designed to address the connectivity challenges of the region, particularly in the hilly terrain of Jammu and Kashmir. Once completed, it will drastically reduce travel time between key areas, improving access and facilitating smoother transportation. The project is expected to provide a major boost to the region’s infrastructure, making it easier for people and goods to move efficiently.Additionally, the tunnel will enhance economic opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir, as it is likely to stimulate trade and tourism, which are key contributors to the region’s economy.
Better connectivity will help both locals and tourists access various destinations with ease, improving the overall experience and promoting economic growth.While the focus is on the Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel, the officials clarified that no proposals for other tunnels in areas like Changer, Bhoonda, Choidraman, Warwan, Dardpora, and Vailoo are currently being considered. This indicates that efforts are concentrated on the completion of the Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel as the flagship infrastructure project for the region.The government’s efforts to revive the Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel project reflect its ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. With the re-sanctioning process underway, it is expected that the project will move forward without further delays. Local officials and stakeholders have expressed optimism that the timely completion of the tunnel will provide much-needed relief and create new economic opportunities for residents.
Experts have stressed the importance of maintaining the momentum of the project to avoid setbacks that could delay its benefits. Once completed, the Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel will not only improve connectivity but also support the region’s long-term development, reinforcing the state’s infrastructure and making it a key player in the broader economic landscape.
As the project moves forward, the NHIDCL and MoRTH will be tasked with ensuring that the bidding process is executed promptly, paving the way for construction to begin. If successful, the Singhpora-Vailoo Tunnel could set a precedent for similar projects in the future, driving the continued growth and development of Jammu and Kashmir.
