New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Tuesday witnessed the historic breakthrough of the main tunnel at the eastern portal of the Zojila Tunnel Project at Minamarg in Kargil district, which brings the Rs 6,800 crore project to establish all-weather connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh closer to completion.

Being constructed between Baltal and Minamarg on National Highway-1, the nearly 14-km-long bi-directional Zojila Tunnel is one of India’s most ambitious mountain infrastructure projects.

Built at altitudes ranging from 2,900 to 3,310 metres, the project represents a landmark engineering accomplishment in one of the world’s most challenging terrains.

Gadkari said that the Zojila Tunnel is much more than a transportation project and will serve as a gateway to development for the region.

Upon completion, travel time between Sonamarg and Minamarg will be reduced from nearly two hours to about 30 minutes, resulting in significant savings in time and fuel.

The project will also reduce accident risks and disruptions caused by avalanches and adverse weather conditions.

The Union Minister highlighted that the tunnel will be equipped with modern ventilation systems, automatic fire detection systems, advanced CCTV surveillance and cross-passage facilities for pedestrians to ensure safe and efficient travel.

Despite heavy snowfall, harsh weather conditions and complex geological challenges, the project has progressed steadily through the efforts of engineers, workers, consultants, contractors, the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and other stakeholders.

Gadkari congratulated all those associated with the successful breakthrough.

To address snow loads and geological challenges, the project includes eight cut-and-cover sections, four bridges, 40 culverts, snow galleries, catch dams, avalanche protection structures, approach roads and state-of-the-art safety arrangements.

The tunnel is expected to boost tourism, facilitate trade, improve access to remote areas and strengthen connectivity to border regions.

From a national security perspective, year-round connectivity will enable faster and more efficient movement of the Indian Army, equipment, supplies and logistics, thereby strengthening strategic preparedness.

The project will also generate employment opportunities, promote economic growth and improve the quality of life of local communities through enhanced connectivity and regional integration.

The Union Minister also said that road and tunnel projects worth about Rs 18,000 crore are under implementation between Kargil and Leh-Ladakh.

Among the important initiatives is the Kargil–Zanskar–Padum highway project, which is improving access to the Zanskar region while strengthening strategic connectivity and facilitating Army movement.

“To improve traffic management in Leh, South and North Bypass projects are being developed to provide seamless movement for vehicles travelling towards Srinagar, Manali and Khardung La without entering the city,” Union Minister Gadkari added.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Members of Parliament, public representatives and senior officials were also present at the site of the tunnel while Ladakh Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena joined the event virtually.

–IANS

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