The Zojila tunnel project achieved a historic breakthrough on Tuesday as a blast broke through the last 2.5 metres of the main tunnel, bringing the decades-old dream of all-weather connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh closer to reality.
Major Milestone in Infrastructure Development
The breakthrough was hailed by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari as a significant chapter in India's infrastructure development journey. In a post on X, Gadkari said, "The historic breakthrough of the main tunnel of Zojila Tunnel is a major step toward all-weather connectivity between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh." He added that the tunnel is a key part of the Pragati Ka Highway and Gati Shakti initiatives.
Significance of the Tunnel
The Zojila tunnel, located at an altitude of about 11,578 feet on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway, will provide all-weather connectivity to Ladakh, which remains cut off from the rest of the country during winter due to heavy snowfall. The tunnel will reduce the travel time from three hours to just 15 minutes and also bypass the treacherous Zojila pass.
The project has faced numerous challenges, including difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions, and geological hurdles. The breakthrough marks a crucial step toward completion, with the remaining work expected to be finished in the coming months.
Political Reactions
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also welcomed the development. Sinha called it a "landmark achievement" that will boost tourism and economic activities in the region.
The tunnel is expected to be fully operational by 2027, providing year-round connectivity to Ladakh and strengthening India's strategic infrastructure along the border with China.
