MEIL Achieves Final Breakthrough of Zojila Tunnel, Marks Major Milestone in Himalayan Connectivity Project
Zojila (Srinagar), June 9 (TNT): Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL) on Tuesday achieved the final breakthrough of the 13.153-km Zojila Road Tunnel, marking the completion of excavation for what is set to become the world’s longest single-tube bi-directional road tunnel at the highest altitude.
The breakthrough marks a significant milestone in the strategically important Zojila Tunnel project being executed by MEIL for the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to provide all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, MEIL Group Managing Director P.V. Krishna Reddy and other dignitaries attended the breakthrough ceremony.
Located at an altitude of about 11,578 feet above sea level, the tunnel connects Baltal in Kashmir with Meenamarg in Ladakh through one of the most challenging geological and climatic terrains in the Himalayas.
Once operational, the tunnel will provide year-round connectivity on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh corridor, which currently remains cut off for several months during winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanche threats.
The main tunnel extends 13.153 km between the west portal at Baltal and the east portal at Meenamarg. Excavation was carried out simultaneously from both ends, with the final breakthrough completing the project’s most critical underground construction phase.
MEIL executed the tunnelling works using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), an internationally recognised approach designed for complex geological conditions. The method enabled continuous monitoring of rock behaviour, immediate support measures and safe excavation through fragile Himalayan strata.
Apart from the main tunnel, the project includes approach roads, bridges, cut-and-cover sections, snow protection structures and other associated infrastructure aimed at ensuring seamless all-weather connectivity.
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari described the breakthrough as a landmark achievement in India’s infrastructure journey.
“This is a historic day in India’s infrastructure story. The Zojila Tunnel is set to create a world record once it becomes fully operational and will serve as a lifeline for the people of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Gadkari praised the efforts of engineers, workers and project officials who worked under extreme weather conditions to achieve the breakthrough, noting that nearly 80 per cent of the workforce comprised local residents.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the project fulfilled a long-standing aspiration of the people of the region.
“The long-awaited dream of the people of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir has finally come true. Improved transportation, new opportunities and tourism growth will bring real transformation to the region,” he said.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said the tunnel represented the realisation of the vision of all-weather connectivity for Ladakh and would play a crucial role in the region’s development.
The project has also recorded a major safety milestone of 10 million safe man-hours, reflecting the emphasis placed on safety and quality during construction.
With excavation of the main tunnel now completed, work will move to the next phase, including tunnel lining, electro-mechanical installations, finishing works and associated corridor infrastructure before the tunnel is opened to traffic.
The Zojila Tunnel is expected to significantly improve connectivity, logistics, tourism and economic activity in the border regions while strengthening strategic access between Kashmir and Ladakh.
TNT KS
