Srinagar, July 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Kargil War Memorial on July 26 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
Scheduled to arrive at 9:20 am, Modi will pay tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, as per the communique from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO),
During the visit, Modi will also virtually initiate the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project, an ambitious infrastructure endeavor to construct a 4.1 km twin-tube tunnel at 15,800 feet altitude along the Nimu–Padum–Darcha road. The tunnel, once completed, will be the highest in the world, aimed at improving connectivity to Leh, especially during adverse weather conditions.
The Shinkun La Tunnel is expected to ensure the swift and efficient movement of armed forces and equipment while also boosting economic and social development in Ladakh, as per the PMO.
In a statement on X, Modi emphasized the significance of July 26: “We will mark the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas. It is a day to pay homage to all those who protect our nation. I will visit the Kargil War Memorial and pay tributes to our brave heroes. Work will also commence for the Shinkun La Tunnel Project. This project is important to improve connectivity to Leh, especially during bad weather.”
The tunnel will address limitations of existing axes to Leh, which are affected by snow for four to five months annually. The Atal Tunnel has improved year-round accessibility from Manali to Darcha.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), reviewed the arrangements for the Prime Minister’s visit, ensuring that the commemoration and the project launch proceed smoothly.
The 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrates the success of Operation Vijay, which concluded the Kargil War between India and Pakistan in 1999. This day marks the reclaiming of strategic positions in the Kargil sector that had been infiltrated by Pakistani forces. It honors the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers and reaffirms India’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.
In 2022, Prime Minister Modi had previously visited Kargil to celebrate Diwali with soldiers and laid a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial, paying tribute to those who lost their lives.
Key features of Shinkun La Tunnel Project:
– Will provide all-weather connectivity to Leh.
– Enhance movement of armed forces and equipment.
– Bolster economic and social development in Ladakh.
-Connect Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh with Zanskar Valley in Ladakh.
