Leh, April 03: The Government of India is yet to disclose the key details regarding the funding, timeline and environmental impact of the Kela Tunnel project in Ladakh Union Territory.
Responding to a query in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Jairam Gadkari, stated that information on the project is being compiled and will be presented to the House at a later date.
The tunnel, expected to be developed under the Strategic Road Projects initiative, is anticipated to significantly enhance connectivity in the Ladakh region, benefitting both defence operations and civilian mobility. However, specifics regarding its estimated cost, completion schedule, and consultations with local stakeholders remain undisclosed at this stage.
Environmental concerns have also been raised regarding the potential impact of the project, but the government has yet to confirm whether a formal environmental assessment has been conducted. The tunnel is considered vital for ensuring all-weather access to remote areas of Ladakh, a region of strategic significance for both the armed forces and local communities.
Ladakh, a high-altitude region has long faced challenges in maintaining year-round road connectivity due to extreme weather conditions. The Kela tunnel is part of a broader effort to enhance infrastructure in the region, particularly in light of recent border tensions. Similar projects, such as the Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh, have played a crucial role in improving transport links in mountainous areas. However, concerns over environmental degradation, displacement of local communities, and ecological sustainability have accompanied such large-scale infrastructure developments.
With growing strategic and economic importance, Ladakh continues to be a focus for infrastructure investment, but the lack of transparency on the Kela tunnel project raises questions about planning, consultation and long-term sustainability.
