Ladakh, July 27: The Zoji La Tunnel, a significant infrastructure project aimed at establishing all-weather connectivity between the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, is now expected to be completed by December 2030, according to an announcement by a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) official on Thursday.
Captain IK Singh, the office-in-charge of the BRO, shared that the revised length of the tunnel stands at 13.15 km, with a total length of 14.15 km. The tunnel is designed in a horseshoe-shaped single tube, facilitating a two-lane road.
Originally slated for completion by December 2026, the construction company has extended the completion date to December 2030.
Once operational, the Zoji La Tunnel is expected to drastically reduce travel time, with the arduous 3-4 hour journey across Zoji La Pass reduced to a mere 15 minutes.
The tunnel is of paramount importance from India’s security perspective and will significantly facilitate military movements in the region.
The project includes a Smart Tunnel (SCADA) system, constructed using the advanced Austrian tunnelling method. It is equipped with modern facilities like CCTV surveillance, radio control, uninterrupted power supply, and efficient ventilation.
The strategic Zoji La Pass, which lies between Srinagar and Leh, serves as a crucial route for military movements, particularly during the winter months.
The Zoji La Tunnel is being executed by Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL), following the foundation stone being laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2018.
Once operational, this tunnel will provide all-weather safe connectivity between Srinagar, Dras, Kargil, and Leh regions, significantly enhancing transportation and accessibility in the area.
