Union Minister Nitin Gadkari marked a milestone June 9,2026,overseeing final blasting of Zojila tunnel in Kargil . This 13.14-kilometer tunnel, claimed as world's longest single-tube, bi-directional road tunnel at 11,578 feet, aims to boost national security and regional integration.
Gadkari stressed tunnel's potential to change logistics for Indian Army,saying it will enable faster, safer movement of troops,supplies. "From national security view,this project will be a major shift," he said, underlining its strategic importance.
Beyond military, Zojila tunnel seeks to improve life for locals. Gadkari noted it will lay groundwork for jobs, economic opportunities, spurring regional growth. "By providing all-weather connectivity,this project gives new strength to national integration," he added.
Ceremony attended by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha saw Gadkari calling it historic for India’s infrastructure. He hailed it as proof of nation’s engineering prowess,achieved in tough conditions .
Built at elevations from 2,900 to 3,310 meters,tunnel faced severe weather, complex geology . “Despite heavy snowfall, harsh weather, India’s engineers have turned this tough task into reality,” Gadkari stated.
Equipped with advanced safety features,including modern ventilation,fire detection, CCTV surveillance. Travel time between Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir and Minamarg in Ladakh will drop from two hours to 30 minutes,cutting fuel use,accident risk.
Gadkari credited project’s progress to Prime Minister Narendra Modi,saying it links not just mountains but opportunities. He affirmed government’s drive to develop Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh with modern infrastructure .
On occasion,Gadkari announced more road projects for region. Abdullah said this achievement marks a step toward all-weather connectivity,boosting economic growth,tourism, uniting Kashmir and Ladakh .
Lieutenant Governor Sinha echoed these views, saying tunnel is lifeline for region, boosting supply chains, aiding Armed Forces. He praised it as engineering marvel ensuring safer travel,major fuel savings.
Gadkari acknowledged efforts of Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Limited (MEIL), builder of tunnel, praising managing director P.V. Krishna Reddy and project head Harpal Singh for their role in this landmark project.
