JAMMU — The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has expressed surprise over recent media reports claiming that the Public Investment Board (PIB) has rejected proposals for two critical infrastructure projects of Chenab Valley—the Singhpora-Vailoo and Sudhmahadev-Dranga tunnels—on the Anantnag-Chenani corridor in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials from NHIDCL stated that they have not received any formal communication from either the Union Government or the Jammu & Kashmir administration confirming that the projects have been dropped.
“We are trying to verify the accuracy of these reports. As of now, there is no official information suggesting that these proposals have been shelved,” a senior NHIDCL official said. Another official noted that all major statutory approvals, including defence and forest clearances, had already been secured, and land acquisition covering 38.6 km of approach roads had been completed.
“There may be technical issues, but it’s hard to believe the project would be abandoned, especially since compensation has already been disbursed to landowners,” the official added.
The tunnel projects, particularly Singhpora-Vailoo—which connects Ahlan in Kokernag to Chatroo in Kishtwar—were expected to provide year-round connectivity between Chenab Valley and Kashmir, bypassing the snowbound Sinthan Pass. The Sudhmahadev-Dranga tunnel was aimed at improving access between Doda and Chenani, offering a safer alternative to the fragile Doda-Batote road.
Reports earlier this week, including one by The Times of India, claimed that the PIB had declined the tunnel proposals, citing the high estimated cost of Rs 8,900 crore, lack of strategic classification under the Defence Ministry, and the existence of alternate road routes. This purported decision triggered widespread disappointment across the Chenab Valley and beyond.
Advocate Sheikh Nasir, President of the Kishtwar Bar Association, said the Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel held immense promise for the region’s future. “This project could have unlocked new opportunities in tourism and trade. Scrapping it feels like ignoring the region’s genuine development needs,” he said.
Echoing this, Doda-based activist Mudassir Hussain noted that the Sudhmahadev-Dranga tunnel was not just a convenience but a necessity. “Given the dangerous conditions on the current road and the history of landslides, an alternative route is critical for public safety and economic resilience of Chenabi people,” he emphasized.
Local shopkeeper Saqib Ahmed from Kishtwar said the project symbolized hope for better winters and improved access. “For years, we believed this tunnel would finally end our winter isolation. Hearing that it might be cancelled is deeply disappointing,” he said.
Shakir Mir, a trader from Kokernag, pointed out the economic importance of the proposed tunnels. “These roads could have given a real push to local businesses and made travel between regions more practical, especially for tourists,” he said.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) also voiced strong opposition. Senior PDP leader and former legislator Advocate Firdous Tak described the reported decision as a “serious letdown” for the Chenab Valley.
“These tunnels were never just concrete infrastructure—they were a means of uplifting communities long left behind. Former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had championed these projects, recognizing their potential to bridge the development gap between Chenab Valley, Kashmir, and Jammu,” Tak stated.
He criticized both the Centre and regional political stakeholders for not doing enough to secure these proposals. “While other regions are witnessing major infrastructure upgrades, Chenab Valley’s core needs remain sidelined,” he added.
The Singhpora-Vailoo project has experienced multiple setbacks. First approved in 2017 and reaffirmed in 2021, the bidding process launched in 2023 was eventually scrapped in 2024 due to a lack of security clearance for the lowest bidder—a joint venture involving foreign firm EVRASCON—and complications with their financial guarantee. NHIDCL has since expressed intent to reissue the tender.
The Anantnag-Kokernag-Kishtwar route—opened to light vehicles only in 2009—remains closed in winter months due to heavy snowfall at Sinthan Pass (elevation 12,500 feet). The proposed tunnel aimed to eliminate this seasonal disruption and provide seamless, all-weather connectivity.
While Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari made passing reference to the Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel during the Z-Morh Tunnel inauguration earlier this month, suggesting it may remain part of future infrastructure planning, the recent PIB report—if confirmed—could stall momentum once again.
NHIDCL officials maintain that until an official order is issued, they will continue to pursue clarity and push forward with preparatory work.
(With inputs from media reports)
The Chenab Times News Desk