24 June, 2025:
In a major boost to connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, the Centre on Monday (June 23, 2025) cleared 19 key road and tunnel projects worth ₹10,637 crore. The move is expected to significantly cut travel time and ensure year-round access to several remote areas in the frontier districts, especially those located close to the Line of Control (LoC).
The proposed Peer Ki Gali tunnel, which will turn the 84-km Mughal Road into an all-weather road providing a crucial alternative to the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, has excited political leaders across the board. “It is a major achievement of my government,” the Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said.
Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to PM Modi and Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari for approving 19 mega road and tunnel projects for the Union Territory.
In a post on X, the LG said he is extremely grateful to PM Modi Ji and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for giving approval to 19 mega road and tunnel projects for J&K worth Rs 10,637 Crore.
“Major approved projects include construction of Peer-Ki-Gali tunnel, Sadhana tunnel, Zaznar Shopian section of NH-701A, 4-L flyover from Lal Chowk to Parimpora, Trehgam Chamkote section of NH-701, 4-Lane Magam Flyover on Narbal-Gulmarg section & Qazigund Bypass & other projects,” the LG said.
The construction of a modern road along the historic Mughal Road first began in the 1970s during the tenure of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. However, the project made little headway for decades. It was only in 2003, under Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s government, that the plan was revived in earnest. By 2009, during Omar Abdullah’s tenure, traffic was finally allowed on the route. Today, while the road is functional, it remains a seasonal lifeline, shutting down every winter due to heavy snowfall at critical stretches like Peer Ki Gali and Bafliaz.
