The proposed corridor would link Shahpur, Draman, Singhuta, Chuwari, Chamba, Jot, Tissa, Sach and Pangi. Pathania highlighted its importance for the Indian Army’s divisional headquarters at Yol Cantonment near Dharamshala, stating that the route could support the movement of troops and military equipment towards border areas during a security emergency.
He argued that developing only selected stretches would not meet the broader strategic objective of establishing a comprehensive road connection to the region. The Chamba-Tissa-Bairagarh-Sach section is already under consideration for development through the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF), and he requested that the proposal be extended to the Draman-Singhuta-Chuwari-Chamba stretch via Jot.
Pathania also sought approval for a tunnel between Chuwari and Chamba. He informed the minister that the Shahpur or Draman-Chuwari-Chamba road via Jot had already been widened with support from the World Bank and the Central Infrastructure Fund, and had reached nearly two-lane standards.
Gadkari said the central government was in the final stages of deliberations on its policy for declaring new National Highways. He indicated that the proposal would be considered after the guidelines and criteria were finalised, but no approval was announced following the meeting. The corridor could improve connectivity between Gaggal Airport, Shahpur, Chamba and Pangi, while supporting tourism, essential supplies and security movement. Its eventual scope will depend on the Centre’s policy framework and approval process.