The government has stated that the four-laning of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) is largely complete, with delays limited to a 14-km geologically fragile stretch between Ramban and Banihal, now scheduled for completion by June 2027.
Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari shared the update in the Rajya Sabha on December 17, 2025, responding to a question on NH-44 and the Singpora–Vailoo Tunnel project. Of the 244-km strategic corridor connecting Jammu and Srinagar, approximately 230 km has been upgraded to four lanes, including 20 tunnels (21 km) and nine bypasses (63 km). Major sections such as the Jammu Bypass, Chenani–Nashri Tunnel, and Banihal–Srinagar stretches are complete.
The unfinished Ramban–Banihal section involves five tunnels (8 km) and nearly 6 km of viaducts through challenging geological zones. Frequent landslides, realignments, and complex engineering requirements have caused delays. To address these, the government has implemented satellite-based ground displacement monitoring, slope stabilization using soil nailing, rock bolting, bio-engineering, and cut-and-cover structures. One tunnel package is 82% complete and expected by February 2026, while the remaining packages are due by December 2026 and June 2027.
Regarding the Singpora–Vailoo Tunnel, a key all-weather link for central Kashmir, the DPR is ready, over 90% of land acquired, and Stage-I forest clearance obtained. Earlier tenders were cancelled on national security grounds; fresh tendering will follow DPR optimization and approval.
NH-44 remains a critical lifeline, and the remaining works are being executed with enhanced engineering safeguards to ensure long-term stability and year-round connectivity across the Pir Panjal range.