NHIDCL's Sonamarg tunnel project sets new benchmark in infra development

Srinagar, Jan 11: The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of the Sonamarg Tunnel, a `2,717 crore infrastructure marvel that stretches 12 kilometers, including a 6.4-kilometer tunnel and 5.6-kilometer approach road.

A statement issued by the corporation said that they have engineered the tunnel with advanced features, including a three-lane approach road designed to optimize traffic management. This design enables smooth flow of both slow-moving and faster vehicles, effectively addressing potential traffic bottlenecks that previously plagued the region.

NHIDCL's engineering expertise is further demonstrated in the project's strategic bypass of avalanche-prone zones, ensuring safe, year-round connectivity between Gagangir and Sonamarg. Prime Minister NarendraModi will inaugurate this engineering feat on January 13.

The corporation has simultaneously completed another crucial project in the region - the NH-244 highway. This alternative route, connecting Vailoo to Alstop, bypasses the landslide-prone NH-44 between Jammu and Srinagar, showcasing NHIDCL's commitment to developing resilient infrastructure in challenging Himalayan terrain.