Shyam Sood
Rajouri, Oct 25: The Border Road Organisation (BRO) has achieved a significant milestone within the shortest possible time in achieving the breakthrough of a 260-meter tunnel on Akhoor-Rajouri-Poonch National Highway 144 A.
260 meters long Kandi is being constructed with a project cost of Rs 231.58 crores.
The mega project for the upgradation of Jammu-Poonch NH144 A (from Jammu to Akhnoor 4-lane) and Akhnoor to Poonch (two-lane) was approved by the Government of India under Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
The project is divided into 8 phases with work on 6 phases already going on whereas work on the remaining two phases is expected to start shortly. 3 phases fall under the territorial jurisdiction of Jammu & Rajouri districts each, one in Poonch district and the 8th phase falls under the Rajouri-Poonch districts jurisdiction.
A total of four tunnels will be constructed between the Akhnoor-Poonch stretch of NH 144 A.
The BRO is making remarkable progress in enhancing the horizontal and vertical profile of the road.
” In a commendable feat of engineering, the first of the four tunnels 260 meters Kandi tunnel has achieved its breakthrough. This incredible accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the BRO team,” said BRO.
The tunnel work was started in the month of March & despite facing adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and landslides along the entire road stretch, remarkable progress has been achieved.
The breakthrough came ahead of schedule, demonstrating the exceptional expertise and determination of the BRO.
Chief Engineer Project Sampark, Brigadier Tejpal Singh, SM, on Wednesday was present to witness this momentous occasion.
BRO officials said Package -1 is expected to be completed by June 2024.
“Once completed, this tunnel will reduce the length of the road by 2.5 kilometers, improving connectivity and facilitating more efficient travel between Akhnoor and Poonch,” said BRO.
It is pertinent to mention here that tunnels on NH144A will play a vital role in enhancing strategic connectivity for the Armed Forces, enabling smoother and more expedient movement from Jammu to Poonch.
The Border Road Organisation is committed to the timely and successful execution of all Projects undertaken, and this achievement is a testament to its dedication to improving transportation infrastructure and serving the nation.
