The Indian central government has initiated comprehensive plans aimed at establishing year-round connectivity to the strategically important and remote Tangdhar and Gurez sectors in Jammu and Kashmir. This development was officially communicated to Parliament on Wednesday, signaling a significant push towards improving infrastructure in these border regions.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, informed the Rajya Sabha that the process for preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Sadhna Tunnel on the Kupwara–Tangdhar section of National Highway-701 has commenced. The awarding of consultancy services for this crucial project is a key step towards ensuring that the Tangdhar region remains accessible throughout the year, irrespective of adverse weather conditions. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance logistical capabilities and provide consistent access to these areas.
In parallel, for the Gurez sector, the government has opened tenders for consultancy services to prepare a DPR for a proposed tunnel at Razdan Pass. This move underscores the commitment to overcoming geographical barriers that currently impede regular access to Gurez, particularly during winter months when heavy snowfall often leads to prolonged road closures.
Minister Gadkari further elaborated on the proactive measures being taken to maintain connectivity. He stated that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is diligently ensuring proactive snow clearance on all national highways, including other roads under its purview in the remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The objective is to keep these vital routes open and traffic-worthy throughout the challenging winter seasons. This ongoing effort is critical for the movement of essential supplies, personnel, and for facilitating emergency services.
Beyond transportation infrastructure, the government is also focusing on bolstering healthcare facilities in these underserved regions. Under the Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), Block Public Health Units have been sanctioned for Dawer in Gurez, Tangdhar, and Teetwal. Additionally, a Primary Health Centre (PHC) has been approved for Sheikhpora, and a New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) for Bhagote. These health infrastructure upgrades are expected to significantly improve access to medical services for the local population.
Recognizing the persistent challenges of accessing specialized medical care during periods of complete road closure, the Jammu and Kashmir administration is providing free helicopter and air evacuation services. These services are specifically for critically ill patients and emergency cases requiring referral to tertiary healthcare institutions located outside Gurez. The coordination of these vital evacuations is managed by the District Administration in close collaboration with the Health Department, ensuring timely medical intervention when ground transportation is impossible.
The minister also highlighted infrastructure development in other remote areas. For regions such as Marwah–Wardwan, a Block Public Health Unit has been sanctioned at the Community Health Centre (CHC) Marwah, and an Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) has been approved for Margi. Furthermore, a six-bed prefabricated unit, funded under the Emergency Covid Response Package Phase-II (ECRP-II), has been sanctioned for the Primary Health Centre at Afti. These measures collectively aim to strengthen the healthcare network and ensure continuity of essential services in geographically isolated parts of Jammu and Kashmir, thereby improving the quality of life for residents and enhancing the operational readiness of security forces in border areas.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.