Gadkari Responds to Er Rashid on Razdan, Machil Tunnels; OTCA Execution Under Consideration

Srinagar: Member of Parliament Er Rashid has taken up the issue of several tunnel projects in North Kashmir with the Union Government, seeking improved all-weather connectivity for border districts.

Responding to his representation, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari informed that while the proposed roads and tunnels cited by the MP are not part of the National Highways (NH) network, certain tunnel projects have been considered under the Other Than Capital Acquisition (OTCA) budget.

In a letter dated February 9, 2026, Gadkari referred to Rashid’s request regarding the construction of tunnels at Razdan Pass in Bandipora and Machil Pass in Kupwara, aimed at ensuring year-round connectivity in these strategically significant areas.

The Minister conveyed that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has informed the Ministry that the proposed Razdan Pass and Machil Pass tunnels have been considered for execution under the OTCA budget, which is generally utilised for works of strategic and operational importance.

However, Gadkari said that the proposed road stretches mentioned in the representation do not fall under the National Highways network. He further stated that the policy for declaration of new National Highways is currently under consultation and will be finalised in due course.

Er Rashid had urged the Centre to prioritise these projects, highlighting the hardships faced by residents due to frequent road closures, especially during winter months, and stressing the strategic importance of strengthening infrastructure in North Kashmir’s border regions.