Development and infrastructure projects are key to enhancing the socio-economic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, a region that has long struggled with political turbulence and economic challenges. The need for rapid development was underscored recently when Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha directed security forces to “secure vital infrastructure projects” across the Union Territory. This directive came in the wake of a militant attack on the employees of APCO Infratech, responsible for constructing the strategic Z-Morh tunnel on the Srinagar-Ladakh national highway, an incident that claimed seven lives. This tragic event, which marks the first militant attack on a significant infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir, highlights the pressing importance of bolstering these projects for the region’s stability, security, and prosperity.

Several critical infrastructure projects are underway in Jammu and Kashmir, many of which hold strategic value. 

Zojilla tunnel and Z-Morh tunnel
Two major tunnels—Zojila and Z-Morh—will connect vital regions of Kashmir with the rest of India. These tunnels provide year-round connectivity, which is essential since harsh winters can otherwise isolate areas like Ladakh for several months every year. 

The Zojila tunnel, for instance, will connect Sonamarg in Kashmir with Drass in Kargil, providing Ladakh with all-weather connectivity and reducing travel time from hours to just 15 minutes. Such connectivity is not only beneficial for the local population but is also critical from a security and logistical standpoint.

The Z-Morh tunnel, which bypasses the avalanche-prone Gagangir area, connects Kangan town to the popular tourist destination of Sonamarg and ensures year-round access to Ladakh. Together, these tunnels will improve movement for civilians and security personnel alike, enhancing the state’s defence capabilities in areas close to the Line of Control (LoC). These projects thus play a dual role: they are instrumental in ensuring territorial integration and supporting national security efforts by making remote areas more accessible.

Four-lane Jammu-Srinagar Highway & Srinagar Semi Ring Road

Infrastructure projects such as the four-laning of the Jammu-Srinagar highway aim to establish all-weather routes, dramatically reducing travel time between the Jammu and Srinagar regions. This Rs 16,000-crore project cuts through the mountainous terrain of Ramban and Banihal and incorporates 10 tunnels (equalling 21.5 kilometres), viaducts, and bridges to ensure uninterrupted access. Improved roadways will not only stimulate the economy by facilitating trade and tourism but also improve accessibility to healthcare and educational institutions.

The Srinagar Semi Ring Road, approved in 2021, is a Rs 2,919-crore project to address traffic congestion in five districts across the Kashmir Valley: Pulwama, Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla, and Ganderbal. Designed to improve travel efficiency and reduce congestion in these densely populated areas, the project includes a 60-kilometre road stretch with extensive infrastructure enhancements.

Key components of this initiative feature around 300 culverts to support water flow and minimise flood risks, as well as two flyovers and two over-road bridges to streamline traffic. Additionally, a toll plaza will be constructed to facilitate ongoing maintenance and operational costs. Although initially set for completion by February 2024, and later extended to August 2024, the project has faced delays due to various logistical and environmental challenges, with a new targeted completion date set for June 2025. Once completed, this project is expected to greatly enhance local mobility and regional connectivity.

This 60-kilometre road network, complete with culverts, flyovers, and over-road bridges, will connect urban centres and rural areas, facilitating better mobility for thousands of residents. An improved transportation network means reduced travel time, greater efficiency for businesses, and an enhanced quality of life for citizens across the valley.

The four-laning of a 100-km Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri highway, approved in 2022, is currently underway to enhance connectivity. This project covers two main phases: the Narbal-Baramulla stretch and the Baramulla-Uri stretch, addressing critical traffic flow and safety concerns. Additionally, it includes bypass roads at Pattan and Baramulla and flyovers at Sangrama and Delina, which aim to streamline travel and reduce congestion in densely populated areas. The entire project, budgeted at Rs 823.45 crore, will significantly improve transport efficiency and boost local economic activity by easing travel between important destinations.

AIIMS Hospital, Awantipora

Another significant infrastructure project is the construction of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Awantipora in South Kashmir. This hospital and research facility will bridge the healthcare gap in the region, providing access to advanced medical care and reducing the need for residents to travel to other states for specialised treatment. Moreover, it will create numerous job opportunities in healthcare and allied sectors, contributing to the local economy and providing a source of stable employment in the region.

Power projects in Kishtwar district of Chenab Valley

In addition to transportation and healthcare, power generation is another sector that requires urgent development in Jammu and Kashmir. 

The Union Territory is home to four major hydroelectric projects in the Chenab Valley’s Kishtwar district. These projects—Ratle, Kwar, Pakal Dul, and Kiru—are harnessing the hydropower potential of the Chenab River to supply clean, renewable energy. 

For instance, the Ratle Hydroelectric Power Project, generating 850 MW, is under construction on the Chenab River. Initially awarded to GVK Ltd in 2010, the project saw its foundation stone laid by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2013. GVK exited the project later, and in 2019, a MoU between NHPC and JKSPDC was established under a joint venture, with Megha Engineering Limited taking on the Rs 5,282-crore project, which includes two power stations and a 133-meter gravity dam.

The Kwar HE Power Project at Padyarna village will produce 540 MW. Costing Rs 4,526 crore, it will feature a 109-meter dam and four units of 135 MW each, targeting completion by November 2026.

The Pakal Dul Power Project, on the Marusudar River, aims for 1,000 MW via a 167-meter dam and four 250 MW units. This Rs 8,112-crore project should be finished by September 2025.

Lastly, the Kiru HE Power Project will provide 624 MW through a 135-meter dam and four 156 MW units, at a cost of Rs 4,287 crore, executed by Chenab Valley Power Projects.

These power projects not only help meet the energy needs of Jammu and Kashmir but also generate substantial employment during the construction and operation phases. By investing in hydropower, the region is tapping into its natural resources to achieve energy self-sufficiency, which will support industries, reduce energy costs, and provide stable electricity to homes across the region.

Enhancing National Security and Regional Stability

Improved infrastructure provides security forces with faster and safer access to remote areas, which is critical in a region where insurgency has long posed challenges. Development and infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir are indispensable for multiple reasons. Improved connectivity boosts local commerce, tourism, and logistics, while healthcare and power projects address the essential needs of residents. Security projects strengthen regional stability and national defence capabilities, ensuring the Union Territory remains integrated with the rest of India. Infrastructure projects thus form the backbone of a transformed Jammu and Kashmir, creating a resilient economy, enhancing quality of life, and solidifying peace and security across the region.