New Delhi, Nov 21: Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has carried out extensive renovations of the 1956-built 2.5 km-long twin-tube Jawahar Tunnel in Jammu & Kashmir. It was upgraded to enhance the security, safety, and comfort of the users using state-of-the-art modern technology, thus bringing it to par with the modern tunnels. The renovated tunnel will be opened to the public in December 2024.
The rehabilitation was carried out through Engineering, Procurement, and Construction mode at a cost of Rs 62.5 crore funded by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. It has been completed in almost one year by Project Beacon of BRO. The upgrade comprised civil as well as electro-mechanical works. It also includes 76 high-definition CCTV cameras, smoke and fire sensors, SCADA systems, and a centralized monitoring room for real-time supervision.
The Jawahar tunnel has historically served as a vital passage through the Pir-Panjal range connecting Kashmir valley and Leh with the rest of India. It acts as an alternate route to NH-44. Vehicles that are not allowed to cross the newly constructed Quazikund-Banihal tunnel such as oil tankers, explosive-laden, and gasoline vehicles, will use this tunnel.
Built in 1956, the Jawahar Tunnel has long served as a vital passage through the Pir Panjal range, connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India.
The restoration, undertaken by Mosh Varaya Infrastructure Limited, incorporates state-of-the-art upgrades to improve safety, functionality, and user experience.
There are new advanced CCTV cameras, a high-tech fire-fighting system, efficient exhaust fans, and enhanced lighting and communication systems. The tunnel is now equipped to meet modern safety and operational standards.
More than 95% of the workforce employed for the renovation was from local areas like Banihal and Verinag.
The upgrades include 76 high-definition CCTV cameras, smoke and fire sensors, and a centralized monitoring room for real-time supervision. “We are in the final stages of testing all systems, including the online integration of safety equipment,” said one of the site engineers. The work is expected to be completed in the coming days, ensuring the tunnel is ready for handover to the BRO.
Although the Banihal-Qazigund four-lane tunnel, opened in 2021, has diverted most civilian traffic, the Jawahar Tunnel remains a crucial route for fuel and hazardous material tankers. It also serves as an alternative pathway during emergencies or adverse weather conditions.
A senior BRO officer commented, “The Jawahar Tunnel is more than just an engineering marvel; it is a lifeline for the region. Its renovation ensures that it continues to play a vital role in connectivity and regional stability.”