The ambitious Zojila Tunnel project, connecting Baltal in Kashmir's Ganderbal district to Minimarg in Drass, Ladakh, is set to achieve critical milestones. With just 2,800 metres of excavation left, the bi-directional tunnel is expected to open for emergency and defence use by December 2025, with full completion projected by December 2027.

As per news report, the approach road from Sonamarg to Baltal is already complete, and rapid progress continues on the 13-km Zojila Tunnel, India’s highest highway tunnel at 12,000 feet. The project employs 1,200 workers, primarily from Jammu and Kashmir, and has seen delays due to weather and avalanches.

Once operational, the 31-km route — including an 18-km approach road — will provide crucial connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, facilitating winter travel and military access. Approved in 2018 at Rs 68 billion, the Zojila Tunnel is part of a broader infrastructure initiative to enhance regional connectivity with 31 tunnels planned across J&K and Ladakh.

The Zojila Tunnel will allow travel speeds of up to 80 km/h and is a cornerstone of India’s strategic and logistical readiness in the region.

[ETVBharat]