Zojila tunnel excavation reaches 10.4 km

Ganderbal, Jan 15: The excavation work on the Zojila Tunnel, spanning 13.14 km beneath the Zojila Pass, has achieved a significant milestone with 10.4 km completed from both ends, according to Megha Engineering Infrastructure Limited (MEIL).
MEIL officials also said about the completion of the crucial 17 km Sonamarg-to-Baltal approach road in a record 32 months. Harpal Singh, Project Manager at MEIL, stated that this section includes four major bridges, ensuring seamless connectivity to the main tunnel.
“This project includes a 5 km tunnel that provides a secure and weather-protected route, a 2.4 km cut-and-cover section to divert avalanches and stabilize roads, and a 400-meter snow gallery near Baltal to safeguard against heavy snowfall,” Singh said. The avalanche diversion structures incorporated into the project will protect the road from avalanche risks, enhancing safety and reliability.
The Zojila Tunnel is poised to revolutionize travel on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh section of NH-1 by drastically reducing travel time from over three hours to just 15 minutes. Upon completion, it will become India’s longest road tunnel and Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, described the Zojila Tunnel as a “transformative infrastructure project,” emphasizing its importance for sustainable development in the region. “This tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity and reduce travel time significantly, making it a game-changer for Kashmir and Ladakh,” Gadkari said.
Reflecting on the project’s financial efficiency, Gadkari revealed that the initial tender cost of ₹12,000 crore was reduced to ₹6,800 crore through diligent efforts, saving ₹5,000 crore in public expenditure. He lauded the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, “This project exemplifies our commitment to efficient and sustainable development.”
The Zojila Tunnel project, once completed, will ensure uninterrupted connectivity between the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, overcoming the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions.