AdvertismentThe tunnel, constructed through the Kalidhar Range, will bypass a difficult stretch of the existing route and is expected to reduce the travel distance by around 11 to 13 kilometres, besides saving considerable travel time.
The Sungal Tunnel is approximately 2.79 kilometres long and has been constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs 600 crore.
While the tunnel has now been opened for public movement, some construction and finishing work is still underway.
Earlier, the BRO had indicated that the tunnel would be opened to the public on August 22.
AdvertismentThe opening of Sungal Tunnel, along with the already operational Kandi Tunnel located a few kilometres behind it, is expected to significantly improve road connectivity and ease travel towards the Pir Panjal region.
The much-awaited Sungal Tunnel on the Jammu–Poonch road was inaugurated on Saturday by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), providing a major boost to connectivity for commuters travelling towards Rajouri, Poonch, Nowshera and surrounding areas.
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The tunnel, constructed through the Kalidhar Range, will bypass a difficult stretch of the existing route and is expected to reduce the travel distance by around 11 to 13 kilometres, besides saving considerable travel time.
The development comes as the widening and upgradation work on the Akhnoor–Rajouri–Poonch road continues at a rapid pace.
The Sungal Tunnel is approximately 2.79 kilometres long and has been constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs 600 crore. While the tunnel has now been opened for public movement, some construction and finishing work is still underway.
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For the time being, only light vehicles have been permitted to use the tunnel. Heavy vehicles, buses and goods carriers have not yet been allowed, as certain works remain incomplete. Sources indicate that heavy vehicle movement could be permitted in the coming months once the remaining work is completed.
The tunnel had been at the centre of public attention, with residents repeatedly demanding its opening. Earlier, the BRO had indicated that the tunnel would be opened to the public on August 22. However, in a significant Independence Day gift, it was opened, bringing relief to commuters.
The tunnel will remain open for light vehicles from 8 AM to 8 PM. After 8 PM, the tunnel will be closed to all vehicular movement.
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The opening of Sungal Tunnel, along with the already operational Kandi Tunnel located a few kilometres behind it, is expected to significantly improve road connectivity and ease travel towards the Pir Panjal region.
Local residents have welcomed the development, calling it an important step towards safer, faster and more convenient connectivity.
