Zojila Tunnel Breakthrough: Nitin Gadkari Marks Milestone in World’s Highest Tunnel Project

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the symbolic excavation of the final wall of rock at the tunnel under the breakthrough ceremony of the world's longest bi-directional Zojila Tunnel today.

The Union Minister was accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and CM Omar Abdullah.

During his visit, Nitin Gadkari received a technical briefing on the 13.15-kilometre Zoji-La Tunnel, a strategic infrastructure project designed to provide all-weather connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Ahead of the breakthrough ceremony, geotechnical expert Janak Singh Rathore congratulated the team for successfully constructing the massive high-altitude tunnel, describing the Zojila Tunnel as the world's highest and Asia's longest bi-directional road tunnel.

While discussing the benefits of the tunnel, Rathore noted that 50 per cent of the work on the tunnel is complete, with the remaining 50 per cent currently underway.

He added that the target for the project's commissioning is set for 2028.

Why is the Zojila Tunnel considered a strategic and record-breaking project?

"I extend my heartiest congratulations to everyone on the construction of such a massive tunnel at this high altitude," Rathore told ANI.

“It is also crucial for tourism; previously, tourists would get stranded in Srinagar, unable to reach Ladakh. Now, they can access the region, including for winter sports. Thus, it is a major step for tourism and the economy, ensuring excellent connectivity between Ladakh and Kashmir and facilitating a steady flow of tourists,” Rathore said.

“Fifty per cent of the work is done; the remaining fifty per cent is yet to be completed. The milestone for commissioning is set for 2028. However, there are components like the ventilation system and other elements; the project will be completed as quickly as possible in accordance with the design specifications," he said.

Authority Engineer Yusuf indicated that it will take approximately two and a half years for the Zojila Tunnel to become fully operational for public traffic.

However, he noted that in the event of a dire emergency, particularly for urgent military requirements, it may be possible to utilise the tunnel on a restricted basis before its official commissioning.

"I am from Iran. I am proud of it. I can say I am proud that about 80% of the project is already finished; the remaining 20% might take another two years or so to complete fully,” Yusuf told ANI.

“Regardless, the breakthrough is a major event for the tunnel, and we are happy that, under the current system, we have managed to execute this project effectively,” he added.

(With inputs from ANI)