Zoji La Tunnel Achieves Major Breakthrough for Year-Round Connectivity
Watch: Zoji-La tunnel’s final breakthrough moment for all-weather road connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir

Image: Firstpost
The Zoji La Tunnel, a 13.153-km project in Jammu and Kashmir, reached a significant milestone with a breakthrough ceremony attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Designed for all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, the tunnel is set to enhance transportation and military mobility in the region.
- 01The Zoji La Tunnel is 13.153 km long and designed to provide all-weather access between Kashmir and Ladakh.
- 02The project has an estimated cost of ₹6,500 crore (approximately $780 million USD).
- 03Around 1,400 workers have faced extreme weather conditions, with temperatures dropping to -30°C.
- 04Completion of the tunnel is targeted for 2028, with the remaining 20% of work expected to take about two to two-and-a-half years.
- 05The tunnel will incorporate advanced safety features and is expected to save the government over ₹5,000 crore through modern construction technologies.
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The Zoji La Tunnel, spanning 13.153 kilometers, has achieved a significant breakthrough, bringing it closer to completion. This strategic project aims to provide all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, addressing the challenges posed by heavy snowfall and avalanches. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, along with Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, attended the breakthrough ceremony. With only three meters of rock remaining to connect the tunnel's two ends, the project is expected to enhance both civilian and military transportation in the region. Built at an altitude of approximately 11,578 feet, the tunnel is part of the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National Highway and is regarded as one of India's most ambitious infrastructure endeavors. The project has faced significant challenges, including extreme weather conditions and avalanches, but is on track for completion by 2028. Once operational, the Zoji La Tunnel will serve as one of the longest single-tube, bi-directional road tunnels globally, setting a precedent for future infrastructure projects in mountainous areas.
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The Zoji La Tunnel will significantly improve transportation between Kashmir and Ladakh, facilitating year-round access and enhancing military mobility.
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