The proposed Sumbal–Bandipora–Gurez Highway in Jammu & Kashmir has moved a step closer to reality with the National Highways Authority of India initiating the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The development marks an important milestone for a project that has long been sought by residents of Bandipora district and the strategically significant Gurez Valley.
The highway is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Sumbal, Bandipora, and Gurez, reducing travel difficulties and providing all-weather access to one of the region’s most remote areas. Improved road infrastructure is anticipated to boost economic activity, tourism, and social development while enhancing mobility for local communities.
The initiative has been welcomed by the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP). The party’s Chief Spokesperson, Inam Un Nabi, described the commencement of the DPR process as a positive step toward addressing the long-standing infrastructure needs of the region.
According to AIP, the proposal gained momentum after Engineer Rashid raised the issue with Nitin Gadkari during a meeting held on the sidelines of the previous Winter Session of Parliament. The discussion reportedly focused on the need for better road connectivity to support the development aspirations of residents in the northern districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Gurez Valley, located near the Line of Control (LoC), remains one of the most scenic yet geographically isolated regions of the Union Territory. Harsh winters and challenging terrain often affect transportation and accessibility. The proposed highway is expected to improve year-round connectivity, making travel safer and more efficient for residents, businesses, tourists, and government agencies.
Beyond transportation benefits, the project is expected to stimulate regional economic growth by improving access to markets, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and public services. Enhanced connectivity could also encourage tourism in the picturesque Gurez region, known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and strategic importance.
The DPR stage is an important part of infrastructure development, involving technical surveys, route planning, engineering assessments, environmental studies, traffic projections, and cost estimates. Once completed and approved, the report will form the foundation for project execution and funding decisions.
Stakeholders have expressed hope that the DPR preparation process will be completed expeditiously, enabling the project to move into the construction phase without significant delays. If implemented as envisioned, the Sumbal–Bandipora–Gurez Highway could become a transformative infrastructure project, improving connectivity and fostering long-term socio-economic development across northern Jammu and Kashmir.
