Inaugural blast marks milestone for BG Tunnel on Jammu-Poonch NH144A

Shyam Sood
Rajouri, March 3: The construction of a critical infrastructure project along the Jammu-Poonch National Highway (NH144A) reached a significant milestone on March 3 with the inaugural blast for the fourth and final Bhimber Gali (BG) Tunnel.
The much-anticipated work on the 1.1-kilometer tunnel, part of the Akhnoor-to-Poonch road-widening project managed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), has commenced at Bhatadhurian under Package-7, covering the stretch from Kalali (in Rajouri district) to Bhatadhurian (in Poonch).
The NH144A is being upgraded from two lanes to four lanes to provide faster, all-weather connectivity to residents in the border districts of Rajouri, Poonch, and parts of Jammu and Reasi. The Bhimber Gali Tunnel will serve as an alternative route for the movement of Army troops and general commuters in the challenging terrain between Rajouri and Poonch.
The inaugural blast was carried out by Brig Neeraj Madan, Chief Engineer, Project Sampark, along with A.M. Prasad, Regional Officer, Jammu, MoRTH. The event was attended by several officials from the civil administration, highlighting the collaborative efforts between BRO and various district departments.
Before the blast, a Puja ceremony was conducted at the tunnel site. The project is expected to enhance connectivity in the region by reducing the highway length by 10.8 km.
Building on the recent breakthrough of the Naushera Tunnel (700 meters) on January 29, 2024, BRO continues to make rapid progress in strengthening infrastructure across the challenging terrain of Rajouri and Poonch districts.
Brig Neeraj Madan reaffirmed BRO’s commitment to developing crucial road projects that enhance connectivity in remote areas while also strengthening defence infrastructure in forward locations.
“The ongoing developments underscore the organisation’s dedication to national security and regional development,” he stated.
The BRO remains steadfast in its mission to build and upgrade strategic road networks across difficult terrains, ensuring seamless connectivity for both defence and civilian purposes.