Zoji La Tunnel Project Nears Completion, Promises Economic and Strategic Benefits
Light at the end of Zoji La tunnel, breakthrough next month
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Zoji La tunnel project, costing ₹6,800 crore (approximately $820 million USD), is in its final phase with only 300 meters left to excavate. This strategic tunnel will connect Ganderbal district in Kashmir to Drass in Ladakh, enhancing year-round access and boosting local economies while ensuring military logistics.
- 01The Zoji La tunnel will be the longest road tunnel in India upon completion.
- 02Only 300 meters of excavation remain, with a breakthrough expected next month.
- 03The tunnel will bypass hazardous areas, significantly improving safety for commuters.
- 04The project is expected to enhance military logistics and boost tourism in the region.
- 05Full commissioning of the project is anticipated within two-and-a-half years.
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The Zoji La tunnel project, with a budget of ₹6,800 crore (approximately $820 million USD), is nearing completion, with only 300 meters of excavation left. This 14.15-km tunnel will connect Ganderbal district in the Kashmir Valley to Drass in Ladakh, providing a crucial all-weather corridor. The project gained urgency after a recent avalanche in the area resulted in seven fatalities. Currently, the Zoji La pass, located at an altitude of 11,575 feet, is closed for up to six months each winter, posing risks from avalanches and falling rocks even when open. Once operational, the tunnel will allow vehicles to traverse the pass in just 15 minutes, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing safety. The strategic implications include improved NH-1 connectivity for defense logistics, facilitating year-round troop and supply movement to the Ladakh frontier. Additionally, the project is expected to stimulate local economies and tourism, following the success of the recently inaugurated 6.5-km Z-Morh Tunnel. The full project is expected to be commissioned within the next two-and-a-half years, as confirmed by officials including Harpal Singh from Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL).
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The completion of the Zoji La tunnel will significantly improve travel safety and accessibility between Kashmir and Ladakh, boosting local economies and tourism.
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