Zojila Tunnel Project Nears Completion with Final Breakthrough on June 9
MEIL-led Zojila tunnel set for final breakthrough on June 9
The Hindu
Image: The Hindu
The Zojila Tunnel, led by Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Ltd., will achieve its final breakthrough on June 9, enhancing all-weather connectivity between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The 13.153 km tunnel is the world's longest bi-directional road tunnel at high altitude, addressing seasonal access issues.
- 01The Zojila Tunnel measures 13.153 km, making it the longest single-tube bi-directional road tunnel globally at high altitude.
- 02The project includes additional structures such as the 457.35-metre Nilgrar Tunnel T1 and the 1,953.63-metre Nilgrar Tunnel T2.
- 03The tunnel is constructed using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) and features India's longest vertical shaft at 474.3 metres.
- 04The project aims to resolve connectivity issues caused by the seasonal closure of the Zojila Pass due to extreme weather conditions.
- 05Once operational, the tunnel will significantly improve access between Srinagar and Ladakh, boosting tourism and economic activity in the region.
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The Zojila Tunnel project, executed by Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Ltd. (MEIL) for the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL), is set to achieve a significant milestone with its final breakthrough scheduled for June 9. This 13.153 km tunnel, the longest single-tube bi-directional road tunnel at the highest altitude, connects Baltal near Sonamarg to Meenamarg in the Drass-Kargil region, situated at approximately 11,578 feet above sea level. The overall project encompasses 30.894 km, including additional tunnels, bridges, and safety structures. Designed to tackle connectivity challenges caused by seasonal closures of the Zojila Pass due to heavy snowfall and avalanches, the tunnel will facilitate all-weather access between Srinagar and Ladakh, enhancing logistics, civilian movement, and strategic mobility in the border area. The project is expected to support economic growth and tourism in the region. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari will attend the breakthrough ceremony, marking a pivotal moment in this major engineering initiative.
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The Zojila Tunnel will enhance connectivity in the region, facilitating year-round access and boosting tourism and economic activities.
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