Project aims to strengthen Jammu–South Kashmir connectivity through remote hill districts
Jammu, May 21: In a significant push to road infrastructure and regional connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has floated tenders for the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed four-lane Katra–Reasi–Mahore–Gulabgarh–Nandimarg–Kulgam highway corridor.
The proposed highway is envisioned as a strategic link connecting NH-44 with several remote and mountainous areas of the Union Territory, with the objective of improving transportation access between the Jammu region and South Kashmir.
According to official documents, the tender for consultancy services has been issued by NHAI’s Regional Office Jammu under reference number JKDIV/14/2025-NHAI-RO Jammu/E 290669. The consultancy assignment includes preparation of a comprehensive DPR for the proposed four-laning of the corridor stretching from Katra to Kulgam.
Officials familiar with the project said the highway is expected to substantially reduce travel time, improve inter-regional mobility, and facilitate economic activity across the districts falling along the alignment. The proposed corridor is also likely to boost tourism and trade by enhancing accessibility to several hilly and underserved areas.
The planned route will pass through regions such as Mahore, Gulabgarh and Nandimarg, which often remain vulnerable to road disruptions due to harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain. Authorities believe the project could significantly improve all-weather connectivity for residents living in these remote pockets.
As part of the DPR exercise, the selected consultancy firm will undertake feasibility studies, traffic assessments, alignment planning, engineering design work, and other technical evaluations necessary for the execution of the project.
NHAI has invited bids through an open tendering process. The last date for submission of bids has been fixed as June 22, 2026.
The proposed highway corridor is being viewed as an important infrastructure initiative with the potential to strengthen connectivity, improve accessibility in remote areas, and support long-term socio-economic development in Jammu and Kashmir.
