Kargil, India, June 9: The final breakthrough of the 13.15-kilometre Zojila Tunnel was achieved on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the construction of the all-weather road link between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the breakthrough ceremony, accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
The tunnel, being constructed between Baltal in Sonamarg and Meenamarg in Drass, is designed to provide year-round connectivity across the Zojila Pass, which remains inaccessible for several months each year due to heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
During the visit, officials briefed the Union Minister on the progress of the project. Geotechnical expert Janak Singh Rathore said the tunnel is expected to improve connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh while supporting transportation, tourism and defence logistics. He stated that approximately half of the project has been completed, with the remaining work currently underway. The project is targeted for commissioning in 2028.
Authority Engineer Yusuf said the tunnel is expected to become fully operational within the next two-and-a-half years. He added that limited use of the tunnel may be considered in emergency situations, particularly for strategic requirements, before its formal opening.
Ladakh Member of Parliament Hanifa Jan said the tunnel would provide all-weather connectivity to the region and improve access to essential services, education and healthcare during winter months. He noted that the project is expected to contribute to economic activity and strengthen transport links between Ladakh and the rest of the country.
Situated at an altitude of around 11,578 feet, the Zojila Tunnel is being developed at a cost of approximately Rs 6,500 crore. Once completed, it will provide uninterrupted road connectivity along one of the country’s key Himalayan corridors.
The project is being executed by Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd, which has described the tunnel as one of India’s major road infrastructure projects. The breakthrough marks the completion of excavation works and paves the way for the next phase of construction, including installation of ventilation, safety and operational systems ahead of commissioning.