Singhpora–Vailoo tunnel project moves forward with Rs 3,567-cr bid invitation

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has invited bids for the Singhpora–Vailoo twin-tube tunnel project under the Sinthan Pass. Estimated to cost Rs 3,567.51 crore, the project aims to establish an all-weather connectivity link between Kishtwar in the Chenab Valley and Anantnag in south Kashmir.

The project will provide an alternative to the Sinthan Top route, which is frequently closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. The construction involves a 38.611-km highway package, including a 10.331-km left tunnel tube and a 10.363-km right tunnel tube. The work will be executed in Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode with a 60-month construction period and a 120-month maintenance period.

Technical specifications for the tunnel include a nine-metre carriageway, footpaths, and emergency facilities. The two tubes will be interconnected via 20 cross-passages spaced at approximately 500-metre intervals to allow for pedestrian movement and emergency evacuations. The tunnel will also feature semi-transverse ventilation, fire detection, CCTV surveillance, and emergency communication systems.