The 4-lane Digdol-Panthyal Twin Tube tunnel project on the Ramban-Banihal section of NH-44 has crossed 87.2% physical progress, marking a major step in the ongoing upgrade of one of the most landslide-prone stretches on the Jammu-Srinagar corridor, according to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
The project, being developed at a cost of ₹866.37 crore, consists of twin tunnels designed to improve connectivity across one of the most challenging stretches of the Jammu-Srinagar highway.
The northbound carriage comprises two tunnel stretches of 2.6 Km and 0.619 Km, while the southbound carriage consists of a 3.08 Km tunnel.
Situated in the Himalayan terrain, the Ramban-Banihal section has historically been prone to landslides, falling rocks, and weather-related disruptions. The Digdol-Panthyal stretch, often referred to locally as ‘Khooni Nallah’, has long witnessed frequent traffic stoppages and accidents, with travellers sometimes stranded for hours or even days.
The twin tunnel project aims to bypass these vulnerable sections by routing traffic through the mountains, thereby significantly improving safety and ensuring reliable all-weather connectivity.
Once operational, vehicles will be able to traverse this stretch in minutes instead of facing prolonged delays caused by adverse conditions.
The tunnels are being constructed using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), a technique suited for complex geological conditions.
Work began in 2022 and has progressed simultaneously on both tubes, with excavation carried out using heading and benching methods to maintain structural stability and safety during construction.
The project forms part of the broader four-laning of the Ramban-Banihal section of NH-44, a critical corridor that connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India.
Improved connectivity along this route is expected to benefit passenger movement, freight transport, tourism, and logistics efficiency.
In addition to civilian benefits, the upgraded corridor is also expected to enhance strategic mobility by enabling faster movement of armed forces and emergency response units along this key national highway.
With construction nearing completion, the Digdol-Panthyal Twin Tube tunnels are set to transform one of the most hazardous stretches of NH-44 into a safer, faster, and more reliable all-weather route, marking a major step in modernising highway infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
