The Mughal Road, a historic route connecting the Pir Panjal region with the Kashmir Valley, has long been a lifeline for trade, tourism, and quicker connectivity between the two regions. However, for six consecutive days, vehicular movement along this critical corridor has remained paralyzed due to heavy snowfall in the upper reaches. This is not a new phenomenon; every winter, this vital road succumbs to the winter elements. The recurring disruption underscores the urgent need for a long-overdue solution: the construction of a tunnel along the Mughal Road. The idea of building a tunnel under the Pir Panjal range has been floated for years but remains mired in bureaucratic delays and policy inertia. A tunnel would provide an all-weather alternative to the treacherous road, ensuring seamless connectivity regardless of the season. This infrastructure is not just a logistical necessity; it is a socio-economic imperative. For the Pir Panjal region, which comprises districts such as Rajouri and Poonch, the Mughal Road is a crucial link to the Kashmir Valley. It serves as a shorter route to Srinagar than the Jammu-Srinagar highway and plays a vital role in promoting trade, especially for perishable goods like fruits and vegetables. The seasonal closures disrupt supply chains, inflate prices, and cause significant losses to farmers and traders. Similarly, the tourism potential of this picturesque route remains largely untapped due to its seasonal nature. A tunnel would unlock this potential, providing a steady stream of income for the local population and bolstering the region’s economy. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the tunnel would serve strategic and humanitarian purposes. The Pir Panjal region is home to some of the most underserved and marginalized communities in Jammu and Kashmir. The recurrent road closures exacerbate their isolation, depriving them of access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Moreover, the region’s proximity to sensitive border areas makes reliable connectivity a strategic necessity. The delay in constructing the tunnel is a glaring example of shortsighted policy planning. While the government has invested heavily in other infrastructure projects across Jammu and Kashmir, the Mughal Road tunnel has been relegated to the backburner. This neglect undermines the region’s development and perpetuates its vulnerability to natural calamities. The construction of a tunnel on the Mughal Road must be prioritized as a matter of national interest. It is not merely a road project; it is a bridge to prosperity, resilience, and integration for the Pir Panjal region and the Kashmir Valley. The government must act decisively, turning this long-standing proposal into a tangible reality. The time to connect the dots—and the regions—is now.