Kashmir-Kanyakumari road project set for completion by April 2026

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized the project’s focus on enhancing connectivity, with the Atal Tunnel reducing travel time to Rohtang Pass, and highlighted the ongoing construction of the 12-km Zojila Tunnel, Asia's largest, now 75% complete

The Government of India is working towards completing road connectivity from Kashmir to Kanyakumari by April next year, according to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari. The announcement was made on May 5 during a project unveiling event in Hyderabad, where Gadkari revealed projects worth over Rs 5,000 crore.

Gadkari emphasized the significance of this ambitious project, stating, “We talk about Kashmir to Kanyakumari. By April next year, we will realize this dream on the ground.” He also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to drive from Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh to Kanyakumari, showcasing the completed road connection linking the north and south of India.

Gadkari explained that the project aims to enhance connectivity between vital regions of the country. He highlighted the completion of the Atal Tunnel, which has significantly reduced travel time to Rohtang Pass to just eight minutes. Additionally, the government is constructing several tunnels, including the 12-km Zojila Tunnel, the largest in Asia, with 75% of work already completed.

Enhanced connectivity across key regions

The project also includes significant infrastructure developments between Srinagar and Jammu, with 36 tunnels planned, 23 of which are already finished. Gadkari further noted that the Katra-Amritsar-Delhi highway, along with the Surat to Kanyakumari highway, will improve connectivity and ease travel across states.

The new expressway from Surat to Kanyakumari will pass through cities like Nasik, Ahmadnagar, Solapur, Kurnool, and Chennai, with the Telangana section already 53% complete. Gadkari expressed confidence that the project will be completed on schedule, realizing the long-awaited vision of seamless connectivity from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.