SRINAGAR, Jun 9 (Agencies): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday hailed the breakthrough of the Zojila Tunnel as a landmark achievement for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, saying the ambitious project will revolutionise connectivity, boost economic activity and enhance national security in the strategically important region.
Addressing a gathering after the breakthrough ceremony, Sinha congratulated the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and commended the engineers, scientists and workers who contributed to the project despite difficult weather and terrain conditions.
“This is indeed a historic milestone for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. I congratulate everyone associated with the project who worked tirelessly in difficult conditions to make this achievement possible,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Highlighting the importance of infrastructure development, Sinha said enhanced road, rail and air connectivity has emerged as a major driver of growth in border and remote areas over the past decade. He noted that regions that remained isolated for decades are now witnessing unprecedented infrastructure expansion.
The Lieutenant Governor also acknowledged the role of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, led by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, in accelerating key infrastructure projects across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
He said the Zojila Tunnel would provide year-round connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, ending seasonal disruptions caused by heavy snowfall while creating new opportunities for trade, tourism and local businesses.
“Besides ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the year, the tunnel will significantly enhance tourism and economic prospects for local communities,” he said.
Emphasising the strategic importance of the project, Sinha said the tunnel would strengthen national security by ensuring uninterrupted access to the sensitive border region in all seasons.
The Zojila Tunnel is one of India’s most significant infrastructure projects and is expected to provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh, which remains cut off for several months every year due to heavy snowfall at the Zojila Pass.