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J&K CM reviews Sungal tunnel progress on Jammu–Poonch highway, targets faster completion of strategic connectivity project

#Infrastructure News#Infrastructure#India#Jammu and Kashmir
Last Updated : 26th Apr, 2026
Synopsis

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reviewed the progress of the Sungal tunnel project on the Jammu–Poonch highway, assessing construction timelines and execution challenges. The tunnel, part of the broader Akhnoor–Poonch road upgrade under NH-144A, is aimed at improving connectivity to border districts including Rajouri and Poonch. The review focused on accelerating works, resolving land and infrastructure bottlenecks, and ensuring timely completion. Once operational, the tunnel and associated highway upgrades are expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve all-weather connectivity, and strengthen both civilian mobility and strategic access in the region.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reviewed the progress of the Sungal tunnel project on the Jammu–Poonch highway earlier this week, focusing on expediting construction and addressing implementation challenges on the strategic road corridor.


The Sungal tunnel, being developed on the Akhnoor–Poonch stretch of National Highway-144A, is a key component of a larger road infrastructure programme aimed at improving connectivity to border districts such as Rajouri and Poonch. The project forms part of a broader highway upgrade that includes multiple tunnels, bridges and road widening works along the corridor.

During the review, the Chief Minister assessed the current status of tunnelling works, approach road development and associated infrastructure, while directing officials to accelerate execution and resolve pending issues related to land acquisition and project coordination. The review also examined timelines for completion and the need to minimise delays in critical stretches.

The Sungal tunnel, approximately 2.7–2.8 km in length, is being constructed to bypass difficult hilly terrain and improve safety on a section of the highway prone to sharp curves and weather-related disruptions.

The project is part of a larger connectivity initiative led by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), which is executing multiple tunnel and road works in the region to ensure all-weather access and reduce travel time between Jammu and Poonch.

Officials have indicated that once the tunnel and associated highway upgrades are completed, travel time between Jammu and Poonch could reduce significantly, with improved road geometry and elimination of difficult stretches enhancing both speed and safety.

The broader Akhnoor–Poonch highway project includes several tunnels such as Sungal, Naushera and others, along with road widening and bridge construction. These works are being undertaken to strengthen connectivity in strategically important border areas, which also hold significance for defence logistics and regional development.

The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of timely completion of the project, noting that improved road infrastructure is critical for economic activity, tourism movement and access to essential services in remote districts. The review also highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among executing agencies to ensure seamless progress across different project components.

Construction of the Sungal tunnel has witnessed steady progress, with key milestones such as tunnelling breakthroughs achieved in earlier phases. The overall highway upgrade is targeted for completion in the coming years, with several sections advancing at different stages of execution.

Once operational, the tunnel is expected to provide safer and faster connectivity, particularly during adverse weather conditions, while supporting movement of goods and passengers across the Jammu–Poonch corridor.

The review reflects continued administrative focus on accelerating infrastructure delivery in Jammu and Kashmir, where strategic road projects are being prioritised to improve regional integration, connectivity and resilience of transport networks.

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