Jammu (Rajeev Sharma): In a significant infrastructure boost ahead of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has completed major engineering works on the Udhampur–Kathua–Doda stretch, enhancing safer and more reliable road connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.
Officials confirmed that a 810-metre-long viaduct at Ramsoo and a 3.5-kilometre tunnel connecting Digdole and Panthyal in Ramban district have been completed and will be opened for traffic from July 3, 2026.
These newly built structures are designed to bypass vulnerable and landslide-prone sections of the Ramban–Banihal corridor, one of the most challenging stretches on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway. The upgraded alignment is expected to significantly reduce travel risks, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
Authorities said the engineering interventions will ensure smoother and more dependable all-weather connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir, which is especially crucial during the annual pilgrimage period when traffic volume increases sharply due to the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.
The Ramban region has historically witnessed frequent disruptions due to landslides and falling debris, often leading to long traffic delays and safety concerns for commuters. The new viaduct and tunnel aim to mitigate these issues by diverting vehicular movement away from unstable terrain.
Officials noted that the timing of the opening has been aligned with the commencement of the Yatra to facilitate safer passage for thousands of pilgrims travelling towards the base camps in Pahalgam and Baltal.
The upgraded infrastructure is also expected to benefit local residents, transport operators, and security forces by improving year-round mobility along this strategic national highway.
With the completion of these critical sections, authorities have expressed confidence that movement along the Jammu–Srinagar corridor will become more resilient to weather-related disruptions, marking an important step forward in strengthening the region’s road infrastructure ahead of the pilgrimage season.
