India's Zojila Tunnel, which will bring the dream of all-weather connectivity between the Kashmir valley and Ladakh closer to reality, will see the light of the day on Tuesday. It is located between Baltal (Sonamarg) and Meenamarg (Drass and Kargil) in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
A blast will lead to a breakthrough at the end of the world's longest single-tube bi-directional bypass built at record height - 11,578 feet above sea level. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari is scheduled to trigger the breakthrough blast at the strategically significant Zojila Tunnel.
The breakthrough is six months ahead of schedule, according to an official of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
The tunnel is 9.5 metre wide, 7.57 metre high, 13.153 km long. It is a horseshoe-shaped single-tube, a two-lane road tunnel. After the breakthrough, the civil and electrical work will begin and the tunnel is likely to be opened by January 2028.
The geostrategically important tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway will provide a year-round weather-proof connectivity to Ladakh, and reduce the earlier 1-1.5 hours travel time to just 15 minutes drive, officials said.
Once operational, the tunnel would enhance both civilian and military mobility across the treacherous Zojila Pass that is usually rendered shut for traffic for three winter months due to heavy snowfall.
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It incorporates a Smart Tunnel (SCADA) system constructed using the NATM, and is equipped with CCTVs, radio control, uninterrupted power supply, and ventilation systems.
It will not only transform regional connectivity but also support economic activity, tourism, and essential services across the region.
This landmark project is being executed by Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL) for the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
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