Historic ‘handshake’ set to mark major construction milestone
Rs 4,600-cr project to ensure all-weather Kashmir–Ladakh connectivity
Umar Raina
Srinagar, June 1: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways is likely to personally inspect the Zojila Tunnel on June 9 following the much-awaited breakthrough of the strategically significant project, top official sources told Rising Kashmir.
Sources said the minister is expected to visit the tunnel site immediately after the breakthrough milestone is achieved to review the progress of work and assess the readiness of the project as it enters a crucial phase of construction.
The much-anticipated “handshake” inside the tunnel is now drawing closer, with tunnel sources indicating that the breakthrough is likely to take place on June 9.
The breakthrough will mark the moment when excavation teams working from opposite ends of the tunnel successfully meet, representing one of the most significant achievements in the project’s construction journey.
Work on the Zojila Tunnel is progressing rapidly from both sides — the East Portal at Minamarg in Drass and the West Portal at Baltal in Ganderbal district. Engineers and workers have been carrying out round-the-clock operations to ensure timely completion of the excavation works.
According to official sources associated with the project, the breakthrough of the strategically important tunnel is expected within days, marking a major milestone in one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure ventures. While no official confirmation regarding Gadkari’s visit has been issued so far, sources within the project said preparations are underway in anticipation of a high-level inspection considering the significance of the breakthrough.
The Zojila Tunnel, being constructed at an estimated cost of ₹4,600 crore, is regarded as one of the most important road infrastructure projects in the Himalayan region. Once completed, it will provide seamless all-weather connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the Union Territory of Ladakh, ending decades of seasonal isolation caused by heavy snowfall and frequent closure of the Zojila Pass during winter months.
The tunnel is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, boost economic activity, enhance tourism and improve strategic mobility along one of the country’s most critical transport corridors.
The project is expected to transform transportation across the region by ensuring year-round access, reducing travel disruptions and significantly improving the movement of people, goods and essential supplies.
Meanwhile, a BJP delegation, including the BJP General Secretary yesterday visited the East Portal of the tunnel from the Drass side to assess the pace of construction work.
During the visit, officials of the executing company briefed the delegation on the progress achieved so far and the preparations underway for the upcoming breakthrough.
Speaking to reporters, senior BJP leader and former Chief Executive Councillor of Ladakh, said the delegation was informed that the tunnel breakthrough is scheduled for June 9. He said details of the construction progress inside the tunnel have also been communicated to the Prime Minister .