Jammu, April 2: The government on Thursday informed the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly that the proposed Lolab–Bandipora Tunnel has been sanctioned under the “Other than Capital Acquisition” head, citing its strategic and connectivity importance.
Replying to a query by Qaysar Jamshaid Lone of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, the government stated in a written response that preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the tunnel has been proposed for inclusion in the Annual Works Plan (AWP) 2026–27.
The House was also informed that a tunnel connecting the Machil sector with the hinterland at Z-Gali has been sanctioned. The government acknowledged that the far-flung border area remains cut off during winter months due to heavy snowfall, leading to hardships for residents.
According to the reply, an institutional mechanism has been put in place to address essential requirements during winter, including advance planning to ensure availability of healthcare and essential supplies.
The Machil area, located near the Line of Control, remains among the most inaccessible border belts during harsh winters, often leaving residents without road connectivity for weeks due to heavy snowfall.
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