Srinagar, June 9: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Monday triggered the final breakthrough of the strategically significant Zoji-La Tunnel, marking a major milestone in one of India’s most ambitious and challenging infrastructure projects.
The breakthrough brings the country a step closer to achieving all-weather road connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh through the 13.15-kilometer tunnel being constructed beneath the Zoji-La pass.
The project is regarded as a critical strategic and economic link, as the existing highway through Zoji-La remains vulnerable to prolonged winter closures due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions. Once operational, the tunnel is expected to ensure year-round connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh.
The final breakthrough represents a key engineering achievement in the execution of the project, which has been closely monitored for its importance to regional connectivity, defense logistics, tourism, and economic development.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah were also present during the event, underscoring the significance of the project for Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Officials described the breakthrough as a landmark moment in India’s infrastructure journey, bringing the long-awaited all-weather corridor closer to completion.
The Zoji-La Tunnel is among the country’s most strategically important road projects and is expected to substantially reduce travel disruptions caused by seasonal closures of the mountain pass.
Beyond improving civilian mobility, the tunnel is expected to enhance the movement of goods and services, strengthen tourism potential, and provide more reliable access to remote regions that remain cut off for extended periods during winter.
With the breakthrough now achieved, attention is expected to shift toward the remaining construction and finishing works required before the tunnel becomes operational. [KNT]
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