MINIMARG, JUNE 09 – Terming the breakthrough of the strategically crucial Zojila Tunnel a “historic milestone,” Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said that it would ensure all-weather connectivity between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, and boost economic growth, tourism and national security in the border region.
Addressing a gathering at the Zojila Eastern Portal, LG Sinha, congratulated the people of J&K and Ladakh and praised engineers, scientists and workers involved in the project for working in challenging conditions.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for making this vision a reality and said that the landmark project will usher in a new era of connectivity and development for Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh.
“Today is undoubtedly a historic day. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Union Territories of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh,” he said, adding, “Under the leadership of PM Modi and the relentless efforts of the Union Minister the Zojila Tunnel will emerge as a lifeline for the region, strengthening supply chains, boosting tourism and providing vital strategic support to our Armed Forces,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
LG Sinha along with the Union Minister inspected the tunnel and expressed his deepest appreciation and commendation to all the engineers, personnel and workforce who have worked day and night under extremely challenging weather conditions at such a high altitude.
“Connectivity drives development and brings economic prosperity. Over the last 12 years, unprecedented work has been done in this sector across the country. There has been a significant improvement with regard to road, air and rail connectivity in these regions.
Given the scale of ongoing projects in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh, I am confident that this will not only boost trade and tourism but will also significantly strengthen national security, especially in border areas.
“I hope this project will be completed at the earliest and dedicated to the people of Ladakh and Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also stated that the completion of this infrastructural marvel will offer immense convenience to devotees of Baba Amarnath Ji coming to Jammu Kashmir from across the country.
As the Chairman of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, I once again extend my gratitude and congratulations for this achievement,” he said.
“I congratulate the people of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir and all those associated with this project who worked tirelessly in adverse weather conditions,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of connectivity in border areas, LG Sinha said improved road, air and rail networks over the past decade have played a key role in driving development.
He noted that previously neglected regions have now seen sustained infrastructure focus.
Referring to the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra beginning July 3, LG Sinha said improved connectivity would provide significant relief to pilgrims travelling to the shrine.
Pertinently, Zojila Tunnel is a landmark engineering achievement being constructed between Baltal and Minamarg on National Highway-1, the nearly 14-km-long bi-directional Zojila Tunnel is one of India’s most ambitious mountain infrastructure projects, being developed at a cost of approximately ₹6,800 crore. Built at altitudes ranging from 2,900 metres to 3,310 metres, the project represents a significant engineering accomplishment in one of the world’s most challenging terrains.
Despite heavy snowfall, harsh weather conditions and complex geological challenges, the project has progressed steadily through the efforts of engineers, workers, consultants, contractors, the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and other stakeholders.
It is Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel and is scripting a new future of year-round connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh. This engineering marvel will significantly reduce travel time, ensure safer travel and provide substantial fuel savings—(KNO)
