Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, accompanied by Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, arrived at the Zojila Tunnel site today to participate in the symbolic excavation of the final wall of rock, marking a historic milestone in one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure projects.
The breakthrough ceremony signifies the completion of a crucial phase in the construction of the 13.15-kilometre-long Zojila Tunnel, which is set to become the longest bi-directional road tunnel on the Asian continent. Built through the challenging Himalayan terrain, the tunnel is expected to transform connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh by providing all-weather access throughout the year.
The project, estimated to cost around ₹6,500 crore, is designed to overcome the longstanding challenges posed by heavy snowfall, avalanches, and harsh weather conditions that frequently disrupt travel across the Zojila Pass during winter months.
Addressing the gathering, officials highlighted the tunnel’s strategic and economic significance, noting that it will substantially reduce travel time, improve road safety, facilitate trade and tourism, and ensure reliable connectivity for residents of remote areas.
The presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, LG Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the breakthrough ceremony underscores the importance of the project for the development of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Once completed, the tunnel will serve as a critical lifeline, strengthening regional connectivity and supporting economic growth across the Himalayan region.
The Zojila Tunnel is widely regarded as a landmark engineering achievement and a symbol of India’s commitment to modern infrastructure development in some of the country’s most challenging terrains.
