The Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways has announced upgradation of the Uni-Directional Khellani tunnel in Doda district, into a two-lane structure on National Highway 244. This tunnel is part of the Sudh Mahadev-Goha-Khellani-Chatroo-Khanabal National Highway project, which will serve as an alternate route to Batote-Kishtwar, providing all-weather connectivity to the Doda region and reducing the distance between Doda and Kishtwar by 30 kilometres. It’s important to acknowledge and appreciate the Government’s efforts to boost infrastructure development in the Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar districts. The numerous projects, including the construction of over 200 new bridges, the Katra-Delhi Express Corridor, three new national highways and Asia’s longest road tunnel, are clear indicators of the Government’s commitment to developing these regions at par with the rest of India. This initiative is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to improve mobility in Jammu and Kashmir while considering environmental sustainability.
Despite the herculean efforts of organisations like the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), NHIDCL, Public Works Department (R&B) and District Administrations, some portions of highways in Doda, Kishtwar and Bhaderwah still face challenges during heavy rains and snowfall, resulting in the isolation of the region from other districts. The ongoing hydroelectric projects in the area are major contributors to development, benefiting the local population, but heavy equipment causes damage to roads and, of course, traffic snarls. The completion of the tunnel and NH-244 will indeed be a game-changer, providing all-weather connectivity not only between Jammu-Doda-Kishtwar but also with Kashmir, as the highway extends to Khannabal on the Kashmir side. This will facilitate socio-economic development and open up opportunities for trade, healthcare and education between these regions. Just as the Mughal Road has benefited areas like Rajouri and Poonch and provided an alternative route for Kashmir, similar benefits can be expected for the people of Doda, Kishtwar and Bhaderwah.
The Government’s focus on improving connectivity to places like Sudhmahadev, Mantalai, Chatroo, and other scenic areas with untapped tourism potential is a positive step. The lack of proper road networks has been a hindrance to their development, and addressing this issue will certainly boost the region’s tourism and overall growth. Improved connectivity and shorter distances will create opportunities on every front. This development can also significantly boost tourism, making the Doda, Kishtwar and Bhaderwah regions more accessible to Kashmir-bound tourists. The upgrading of the hotel industry, including the emergence of five-star hotels, is a positive sign of economic growth in the area.
The all-weather alternative route will be a major boon for the horticulture sector, as it can provide a reliable transportation route for fruit-laden trucks to reach various markets across the country. The two-lane Khellani tunnel will further facilitate heavy and holiday rush traffic in the region, and the scenic spots of Mantalai, Sudhmahadev and Chatroo are expected to experience a revitalization of tourism, ushering in a new era of development for the area.
The improved connectivity and reduction in travel distances will undoubtedly create new opportunities for various industries in the Doda and Kishtwar regions. The Government’s consistent efforts are already leading to positive developments, particularly in the horticulture sector. The introduction of Lavender cultivation is a notable innovation in the area, diversifying agricultural practices and potentially bringing more economic prosperity. The region’s wealth in minerals and mines offers significant potential for economic growth. Additionally, agricultural products like Bhaderwahi Rajmash and Kishtwar Kesar have gained international recognition, which can further boost the region’s economy when marketed globally.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
