Kargil, April 13: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, conducted an inspection of the ongoing construction work at the Zoji-La Tunnel, with officials indicating that the critical all-weather connectivity project is on track for completion by February 2028. The visit underscored the strategic importance of the tunnel, aimed at ensuring year-round access to Ladakh.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the 14.5-kilometer-long Zoji-La Tunnel project, being executed by Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Ltd at a sanctioned cost of Rs 6,808.69 crore, is anticipated to achieve a breakthrough by mid-2026. Lieutenant Governor Saxena reviewed the progress during his visit to the Eastern Portal of the tunnel in Drass.
During the on-site assessment, the Lieutenant Governor was apprised of the advanced engineering features incorporated into the tunnel’s design. These include lay-bys at intervals of every 750 meters and three ventilation shafts, designed to enhance operational efficiency and passenger safety. The excavation process is utilizing the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) from both western and eastern portals. However, officials noted that challenges have arisen in certain sections due to poor rock quality, which has affected the pace of construction.
Expressing satisfaction with the progress achieved to date, Lieutenant Governor Saxena issued directives to the relevant authorities to further accelerate the work. The objective is to ensure the timely completion and subsequent operationalization of the tunnel, which is paramount for maintaining uninterrupted connectivity to Ladakh throughout the year. He emphasized the necessity of adhering to the highest safety standards during the construction phase and for the final structure, prioritizing the security and well-being of commuters.
Lieutenant Governor Saxena described the Zoji-La Tunnel as one of the flagship projects envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He acknowledged and commended the dedication and resilience of the workforce involved in the project, recognizing their strenuous efforts amidst challenging terrain and severe weather conditions. Upon its completion, the tunnel is expected to facilitate seamless connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the nation, significantly stimulating tourism within the region.
The strategic significance of the Zoji-La Tunnel was further highlighted by the Lieutenant Governor, who stated that the project will be instrumental in fostering enhanced economic growth and promoting socio-cultural integration between the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The completion of this vital infrastructure is poised to represent a transformative milestone for the region, unlocking new avenues for development and reinforcing Ladakh’s position as a premier tourist destination.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
