Srinagar, Nov. 22 -- In Jammu and Kashmir, a road is never just a road. It is a lifeline, a gamble, a prayer whispered against the roar of landslides and the silence of snow. The recent review of highway and tunnel projects across the Union Territory paints a picture of progress; tunnels slicing through mountains, highways stretching across gorges, bridges spanning rivers. But as winter descends, the real test begins. Asphalt may promise speed, but spirit lies in preparation, equity and foresight.

The numbers tell a story both inspiring and alarming. Travel time between Srinagar and Jammu has dropped from ten hours to six, thanks to the Banihal-Qazigund tunnel and NH-44 upgrades. Zojila and Z-Morh tunnels, once distant dreams, are inchin...