As preparations intensify for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has completed two major infrastructure projects on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway aimed at improving safety and ensuring smoother travel during the pilgrimage season.
Officials said a newly constructed 810-metre viaduct at Ramsoo and a 3.5-kilometre tunnel between Digdole and Panthyal in Ramban district have been finished and will be thrown open to vehicular movement from July 3, 2026.
The twin structures form part of efforts to strengthen the Udhampur–Kathua–Doda highway corridor, which serves as a critical lifeline connecting Jammu with Kashmir. The upgraded sections are expected to significantly ease traffic movement, particularly during peak travel periods associated with the annual pilgrimage.
According to officials, both the viaduct and tunnel have been designed to bypass stretches that are highly vulnerable to landslides and falling debris, especially along the Ramban–Banihal axis. This section of the highway has long been considered one of the most difficult and accident-prone routes due to unstable slopes and frequent weather-induced disruptions.
By diverting traffic away from these hazardous zones, the new infrastructure is expected to reduce the risk of road blockages and improve overall travel reliability, particularly during the monsoon season when landslides are more common.
Authorities highlighted that the timing of the opening is crucial, as thousands of pilgrims are expected to travel to the base camps in Pahalgam and Baltal for the Amarnath Yatra. Improved road conditions are likely to facilitate safer and more efficient movement of devotees, security personnel, and support staff.
The Jammu–Srinagar highway is also vital for essential supplies, tourism, and civilian movement between the two regions. Officials believe the new infrastructure will provide long-term benefits beyond the pilgrimage season by ensuring year-round connectivity even under challenging weather conditions.
With the completion of these key engineering works, the highway stretch is expected to see reduced travel time and fewer disruptions, marking a significant step toward improving infrastructure resilience in the Himalayan region ahead of one of India’s largest annual religious gatherings.
