Zojila Tunnel Project construction work begins Oct 2020

 Gadkari was addressing an event after the virtual launch of construction work of the 14.15-km Zojila tunnel project through ceremonial first blast.

"It is a moment of pride for India. I am confident that it will be completed in four years and the Prime Minister will inaugurate it before the code of conduct for the next Lok Sabha elections," the Road Transport, Highways and MSMEs Minister said.

The project has a completion schedule of six years.

The project holds strategic significance as Zojila Pass is situated at an altitude of 11,578 feet on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National Highway and remains closed during winters due to heavy snowfall.

Once completed, the tunnel, projected as Asia's longest, would reduce the travel time from 3 hours to 15 minutes with avalanche-free travel on the Srinagar-Leh section of NH1.

He said the re-modelling of the project has resulted in savings to the tune of over ₹4,000 crore to the public exchequer without any compromise on safety, security and quality.

Once completed, the tunnel, projected as Asia's longest, would reduce the travel time from 3 hours to 15 minutes with avalanche-free travel on the Srinagar-Leh section of NH1.

He said the re-modelling of the project has resulted in savings to the tune of over ₹4,000 crore to the public exchequer without any compromise on safety, security and quality.

watch the video of 1st construction blast 

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