Srinagar, June 9: Asia's longest bi-directional tunnel, the ambitious Zojila Tunnel Project, is set to redefine year-round connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, significantly reducing travel time, enhancing safety and ensuring substantial fuel savings. LG Manoj Sinha attended the final breakthrough alongwith Sh Nitin Gadkari Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways today on 9th of June 2026.

The mega infrastructure project comprises a 13.153-km tunnel along with 17.030 km of approach roads, covering a total length of 30.18 km at an estimated cost of ₹6,809.69 crore. The single-tube, two-lane tunnel, measuring 7.57 metres in height, is being constructed beneath the strategic Zojila Pass and will connect Ganderbal in Kashmir with Drass in Ladakh.

Built using the advanced New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), the tunnel is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a Smart Tunnel (SCADA) system, CCTV surveillance, radio communication network, uninterrupted power supply and modern ventilation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, said that under the visionary leadership of Narendra Modi and the relentless efforts of Nitin Gadkari, the Zojila Tunnel will emerge as a lifeline for the region.

"The tunnel will strengthen supply chains, boost tourism, improve socio-economic development and provide vital strategic support to our Armed Forces. It will ensure all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, bringing immense benefits to the people of the region," the Lieutenant Governor said.

Once completed, the Zojila Tunnel is expected to be a game-changing infrastructure project, overcoming the challenges posed by heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions that often disrupt connectivity along the Srinagar-Leh highway.