Srinagar: Construction of the Zojila Tunnel has moved closer to completion, with more than 13 kilometres of excavation work now finished on the 14.15-km project that will connect Kashmir and Ladakh through an all-weather route.
The latest breakthrough marks a significant stage in one of India’s largest mountain infrastructure projects. A final breakthrough blast is expected to be attended by Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari.
Being built at an altitude of 11,578 feet, the tunnel will link Sonmarg in Kashmir with Minamarg in Ladakh, providing year-round connectivity across the Zojila Pass, a route that remains cut off during winter because of heavy snowfall, avalanches and landslides.
Once completed, the tunnel is expected to become India’s longest road tunnel and Asia’s longest bi-directional road tunnel. The project is being developed at an estimated cost of over Rs 6,500 crore and is targeted for completion in 2028.
The tunnel forms part of a larger connectivity push in the region, which includes 19 tunnels being constructed at a combined cost of around Rs 25,000 crore. It is also linked to the Z-Morh tunnel and a broader highway development programme between Sonmarg and Kargil.
At present, travel between Srinagar and Leh can take more than 10 hours and depends heavily on weather conditions. During winter, the closure of the Zojila Pass often leaves air travel as the only option for residents, with ticket prices rising sharply during peak season.
Officials say the new tunnel will substantially improve connectivity by providing uninterrupted access between Ladakh and the rest of the country. It is also expected to support the movement of troops and supplies in the strategically important region.
The project will significantly reduce travel time on the Baltal-Minamarg stretch. The current 40-km route is expected to shrink to around 13 km, while travel time could be cut by nearly 90 minutes. The tunnel is also expected to improve road safety on a route that has witnessed numerous accidents because of difficult terrain and harsh weather.
Speaking during a visit to the project site in 2023, Gadkari had said, “From a strategic point of view, this is important. This area will be developed so people do not have to migrate. This is going to increase employment potential in this region as well.”
Officials believe the project will boost economic activity, improve connectivity for local communities and strengthen links between the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
BI Bureau
