Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Wednesday witnessed the historic breakthrough of the Zojila Tunnel at an altitude of 11,578 feet in Jammu and Kashmir. The tunnel, once completed, will be the longest bi-directional tunnel in Asia and will provide all-weather connectivity to the Ladakh region.
Strategic Importance of Zojila Tunnel
The Zojila Tunnel is a strategically crucial infrastructure project that will ensure round-the-year connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil, and Leh. Currently, the Zojila Pass remains closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall, cutting off Ladakh from the rest of the country. The tunnel will bypass this treacherous pass, reducing travel time and enhancing military logistics.
Key Features of the Tunnel
- Length: The tunnel is approximately 14.2 kilometers long, making it Asia's longest bi-directional tunnel.
- Altitude: It is being built at an altitude of 11,578 feet, one of the highest in the world.
- Design: The tunnel is a bi-directional single-tube tunnel with a parallel escape tunnel.
- Cost: The project is estimated to cost around Rs 6,800 crore.
Gadkari's Remarks
Speaking on the occasion, Gadkari said, "The Zojila Tunnel is a game-changer for the development of Ladakh and will boost tourism, trade, and economic activities in the region. It will also strengthen national security by ensuring quick movement of troops and supplies." He added that the project is being executed with advanced technology and is expected to be completed by 2024.
Challenges and Progress
The construction of the tunnel has faced numerous challenges, including extreme weather conditions, difficult terrain, and geological complexities. Despite these hurdles, the breakthrough marks a significant milestone. The tunnel boring machine (TBM) was used to excavate through the hard rock, and the breakthrough occurred after months of continuous work.
Impact on Ladakh
Once operational, the Zojila Tunnel will reduce the travel time between Srinagar and Leh by about three hours. It will ensure uninterrupted connectivity for the local population, especially during winter. The project is expected to give a major boost to tourism, as well as facilitate the transport of essential goods and services. Additionally, it will enhance the Indian Army's ability to move personnel and equipment to forward areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Government's Commitment
The central government has prioritized the Zojila Tunnel as part of its infrastructure development agenda for border areas. Gadkari reiterated the government's commitment to completing the project on time, stating that it is a symbol of India's engineering prowess and determination to develop even the most remote regions.
The breakthrough was celebrated by officials and workers involved in the project. The tunnel is expected to be fully completed by 2024, after which it will be opened for public use.
