TOI says that the home ministry held meetings on the issue this week. The project is likely to cost around Rs 6,000 crore, sources said. "It's a tough and high-cost project. A call is likely to be taken soon. It's a strategic road and will reduce the travel time from Leh to Pangong substantially. The project is at a very nascent stage," a source said.

Sources said options are being explored whether Border Road Organisation or the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation under the road transport ministry would build the strategic tunnel to provide all-weather connectivity.

Kela pass is the highest motorable pass of the country connecting Leh with Pangong lake. Its altitude is 18,600 ft from mean sea level.

Aiming to improve connectivity for tourism, economic activities and smooth movement of defence forces, the Ladakh administration in 2022 had first stressed the need for new tunnels at four passes at Khardung La, Fotu La, Namika La and Kela.