Jammu/New Delhi: In a massive infrastructural boost for the Union Territory, the central government has confirmed that the Jammu & Kashmir stretch (143 km) of the prestigious Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Greenfield Expressway is on track for completion by March 31, 2026.
January 16, 2026 marks a critical milestone as construction on the five packages within J&K has entered the final “full swing” phase. Once operational, this expressway will revolutionize connectivity, allowing pilgrims and tourists to drive from Delhi to Katra in just 6 hours, down from the current 14 hours.
J&K Stretch: 5 Packages & Deadlines
According to recent updates from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the 670-km expressway has been divided into multiple packages to ensure speed.
- J&K Share: 143 km (Divided into 5 packages: 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18).
- Package 14 (Pathankot-Gurdaspur Border): Work is in advanced stages and is targeting completion by Mid-2026 to align with the final opening.
- Package 18 (Sidhra-Ban): This critical 15.3 km stretch upgrading the existing NH-44 near Jammu is being executed by Gawar Construction Ltd and is targeting a March 2026 finish.
The “Domel to Katra” Connection
The most eagerly awaited section for Vaishno Devi pilgrims is Package 17, which connects Domel directly to Katra.
- Deadline: Revised to February 19, 2026.
- Cost: ₹1,547 Crore.
- Impact: This greenfield section will bypass the congested Jammu-Katra highway, offering a scenic and fast route straight to the base camp of the Holy Shrine.
Correct Route Map & Toll Details
There is often confusion about the route. Unlike the old highway, the new Expressway does not go through Jalandhar city.
- The Route: Delhi → Nakodar → Gurdaspur → Pathankot → Kathua → Jammu → Katra.
- Amritsar Connection: A separate spur connects Nakodar to Amritsar, ensuring the Golden Temple is linked without slowing down traffic to Katra.
- Toll Rules: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently clarified in the Lok Sabha that there will be no toll exemptions for local vehicles based on district registration; standard NHAI rules will apply.
Key Highlights
- Deadline: March 31, 2026 (J&K Stretch).
- Travel Time: 6 Hours (Delhi to Katra).
- Key Section: Domel-Katra (Ready by Feb 19, 2026).
FAQ Section
A1: While the J&K stretch is targeting a March 2026 completion, the entire expressway (including Punjab sections) is expected to be fully operational by mid-2026.
A2: Not the main line. The main expressway goes via Gurdaspur. However, a dedicated spur connects Nakodar to Amritsar, linking the Golden Temple to the network.
A3: No. As of now, the Ministry has confirmed that standard NHAI toll rules will apply, and there is no proposal for district-wise exemptions.
Stay tuned to KittoNews for the latest “Test Run” videos of the expressway.
