Bilal veri cniSrinagar, CNI NEWS: The long-pending Singhpora–Vailoo twin-tube tunnel project under Sinthan Pass is set to move ahead, with the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) inviting bids for its construction along the Kishtwar–Vailoo–Khanabal section of National Highway-244.

The project, estimated to cost Rs 3,567.51 crore, is aimed at providing an all-weather connectivity link between Kishtwar in the Chenab Valley and Anantnag in south Kashmir, offering an alternative to the treacherous Sinthan Top route that frequently remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfallAccording to a Notice Inviting Bid issued by NHIDCL, a copy of which lies with the news agency— (CNI NEWS), the 38.611-km highway package will be executed in Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode.The package includes construction of a 10.331-km left tunnel tube and a 10.363-km right tunnel tube, along with approach roads and other associated infrastructure.

The stipulated construction period is 60 months, followed by a 120-month maintenance period.The project will connect Chhatroo in Kishtwar district with Vailoo in Anantnag district. The eastern approach from Chhatroo to the tunnel portal will cover 17.088 km, while the western approach towards Vailoo will extend for 11.160 km, including the portal section.The eastern portal, proposed near Singhpora in Kishtwar district, will be located at an elevation of around 2,243 metres, while the western portal at Gadole will be at approximately 2,404 metres. CNI NEWS