SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir Government has notified the Common Duct Policy 2026, introducing a framework for shared underground utility corridors aimed at reducing repeated excavation of roads for laying, repairing and expanding electricity, water, telecom, gas and other utility networks.
The policy was approved by the Council of Ministers and notified by the Housing and Urban Development Department.
Under the new framework, integration of common ducts has been made mandatory at the design stage of new road projects, while existing infrastructure is to be integrated through a phased retrofitting process.
The shared underground corridors will accommodate multiple utility services, reducing the need for different agencies and service providers to repeatedly excavate completed roads for separate installations, maintenance and expansion works.
The policy also provides for single-window Right of Way clearances and cost-sharing arrangements among participating utility providers.
A digital mapping mechanism through the “Call Before You Dig” platform will enable agencies to identify existing underground utility assets before carrying out excavation, according to the policy.
The government said the framework is aimed at protecting public infrastructure, reducing operation and maintenance costs and minimising traffic disruption caused by road cutting.
It is also intended to support more planned urban development and improve digital connectivity across Jammu and Kashmir.
The policy provides for shared ducts to be made available to participating utility providers on a transparent, non-exclusive and non-discriminatory basis.
With the policy now notified, its implementation in new projects and phased integration of existing infrastructure will determine how effectively it addresses the long-standing issue of repeated road excavation for utility works across the Union Territory.
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