Zojila Tunnel
Context:
The Zojila Tunnel has achieved a major construction milestone, bringing India closer to ensuring uninterrupted road connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh throughout the year.
Prelims:
- Location: Situated on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway corridor.
- Connectivity: Links Baltal in Kashmir with Minamarg in Ladakh.
- Implementing Agency: National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
- Length: Approximately 13.14 kilometres.
- Strategic Importance: It is among the world’s longest road tunnels constructed at high altitude.
- All-Weather Access: The tunnel will bypass the snow-bound Zojila Pass, which remains inaccessible during winter months.
Mains:
- Enhances strategic military mobility in border regions.
- Provides reliable year-round connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh.
- Facilitates tourism, trade, healthcare access, and movement of essential supplies.
- Strengthens regional development and improves India’s border infrastructure capabilities.
