Twin tunnels are being constructed in Kashmir by the National Highways Authority of India (NHA1) on National Highway 1A, which links Jammu with Srinagar. One tunnel will run between Quazigund and Banihal; the other between Chenani and Nashri. Once complete, the tunnels will slash travel times between the cities by at least five hours, making the journey safer and more comfortable, and also helping to boost tourism. The two parallel, 8.5km tunnels between the cities are being built by Indian infrastructure firm Navayuga Engineering Co. In July, highways minister CP Joshi laid the foundation stone for the tunnels, stating that efforts would be made to complete the project within five years. Construction of the tunnels is necessary due to the hazardous state of the existing stretch of highway, which features blind curves, steep gradients and crosses a mountain pass. This makes it difficult for large trucks to negotiate the route; those with loads of over 8t are not allowed access. According to NHAI officials, the entire mountainous stretch between Quazigund and Banihal sees frequent slope failures, rock falls and avalanches.
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