The proposed Katra-Kulgam road project is emerging as a significant addition to Jammu and Kashmir’s expanding highway network, with the potential to create the shortest road connection between Jammu and Srinagar.
According to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently underway after receiving approval from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The proposed four-lane corridor will connect Katra with Reasi, Mahore, Gulabgarh, Nandimarg and Kulgam.
Estimated at around ₹20,000 crore, the project could take five to seven years to complete. Once developed, the corridor is expected to bring the Jammu-Srinagar road distance down to approximately 180-190 km.
A key feature of the proposal is a planned 7-8 km tunnel between Mahore and Nandimarg. The project would also shorten the existing Reasi-Mahore stretch from about 67 km to nearly 30-35 km through tunnels and viaducts.
The corridor is also expected to bypass the landslide-prone Ramban section, potentially improving travel reliability. Its connectivity through Reasi could additionally benefit pilgrims travelling to Vaishno Devi.
The project comes as other highway upgrades continue across the region, with four-laning of NH-44 nearing completion and several new tunnels under construction.
