SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday raised serious concerns over poor quality standards, slow progress and alleged violations of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during an inspection of the ongoing Sungal Tunnel project at Kalidhar, directing executing agencies to speed up work while ensuring strict compliance with safety norms.
Inspecting the construction site, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed dismay that the project had already missed its 2025 completion deadline and instructed the concerned agencies and officials to maintain quality standards and adhere to all prescribed safety protocols.
He stressed that safety measures must be implemented in letter and spirit to prevent incidents like the recent accident in which a labourer lost his life, and called for the speedy yet quality execution of the remaining works to ensure completion at the earliest.
Choudhary also directed that alternative roads be properly maintained until the tunnel is completed to ensure seamless traffic movement and minimise inconvenience to the public.
Describing the project as vital for the region, he said the Sungal Tunnel would significantly enhance road connectivity and mobility across Rajouri, Poonch and Jammu, besides contributing to the overall development of the area and improving transportation facilities for residents.
During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister also reviewed the ongoing road construction from Master Vaid Prakash Academy to Langer in Nowshera and assessed progress on other developmental projects in the area.
