Srinagar, July 1: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday announced the completion of two major infrastructure projects on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), stating that the projects will be opened to traffic on July 3, ahead of the commencement of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026.
According to a statement shared by the Minister, a copy of which lies with news agency JKNS, the projects include an 810-metre-long viaduct on the northbound carriageway near Ramsoo in Ramban district and the 3.5-kilometre AT-03 Tunnel on the southbound carriageway connecting Digdole to Panthyal, constructed at a total cost of ₹680 crore.
Gadkari said the two projects bypass one of the most landslide-prone stretches of the Ramban-Banihal section, ensuring safer, faster and all-weather connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.
He said the newly completed infrastructure will significantly reduce travel time, improve road safety and facilitate the seamless movement of tourists, local commuters, defence vehicles, freight and essential supplies throughout the year.
The Union Minister further said the projects are scheduled to be opened to traffic on July 3, 2026, ahead of the annual Amarnath pilgrimage, providing safer and more reliable travel for pilgrims.
He added that the projects will also strengthen regional connectivity, promote tourism and trade, support economic growth and enhance the resilience of Jammu and Kashmir’s National Highway network. (JKNS)
