Srinagar, Oct 07: In a significant development, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Saturday announced the successful completion of the newly constructed Maroge tunnel and 250-meter viaduct along Srinagar -Jammu National Highway.
This infrastructure project, coupled with the Maroge tunnel, is expected to substantially reduce travel time and bypass slide-prone areas along the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, Gadkari said
Gadkari took to social media platform X to announce, “In Jammu and Kashmir, we have successfully completed the construction of a 250-meter viaduct (2-lane) in conjunction with a 395-meter (2-lane) Maroge tunnel, at an estimated cost of Rs. 82 Crores.” This crucial addition is located within the Ramban to Banihal section of NH-44.
The 645-meter segment, as part of this larger infrastructure initiative, not only shortens the travel distance by 200 meters, thus reducing steep gradients, but also provides an alternative route that bypasses the well-known Sita Ram Passi slide-prone area. Additionally, it ensures the smooth flow of vehicles, navigating around the challenging Marog Area gradients.
Gadkari emphasised the commitment of the government, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi , to delivering exceptional highway infrastructure to Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that this transformative development not only contributes to the region’s economic growth but also enhances its appeal as a premier tourist destination.
