On 26 July, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development. He initiated the “first blast” for the Shinkun La tunnel project in Ladakh. This event symbolises the commencement of the tunnel’s construction. It was carried out remotely from the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, where the Prime Minister had earlier honoured Indian soldiers on the 25th anniversary of the Kargil conflict.
Shinkun La Tunnel Project For All-Weather Access To Ladakh
The Shinkun La Tunnel is a pioneering infrastructure project which will boost connectivity to Leh and enhance tourism as well as commerce! pic.twitter.com/7whyWjliMP
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2024
The Shinkun La Tunnel Project is a major infrastructure endeavour designed to provide all-weather connectivity from Manali to Leh via the Nimmu-Padam-Darcha axis. The project entails the construction of a 4.1-kilometre-long twin-tube tunnel situated at an altitude of approximately 15,800 feet. Upon its completion, the Shinkun La Tunnel will stand as the highest tunnel in the world, surpassing the existing record held by China’s Mila Tunnel at 15,590 feet.
This ambitious project aims to enhance connectivity. It will bolster logistical support in one of the most challenging terrains in the country. The Shinkun La Tunnel will facilitate swift and efficient movement of armed forces and equipment. This will significantly improve military mobility and operational readiness in the Ladakh region. Furthermore, it promises to foster economic and social development. It will provide a reliable and all-weather route to the remote and strategically vital region.
Benefits Of New Tunnel
Prime Minister @narendramodi virtually carries out the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel project
Shinkun La Tunnel Project consists of a 4.1 km long Twin-Tube tunnel which will be constructed at an altitude of around 15,800 feet on the Nimu – Padum – Darcha Road to provide… pic.twitter.com/6GDIG9TuIY
— PIB India (@PIB_India) July 26, 2024
The new tunnel will reduce the distance between Manali and Leh by 60 kilometres, cutting the journey from 355 to 295 kilometres. This reduction in distance makes travel more efficient. It also offers an alternative to the existing Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh routes. The Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road, which the Shinkun La Tunnel will be part of, holds strategic importance due to its shorter length and its crossing of only one major pass—the 16,615-foot-high Shinkun La.
In addition to its military and strategic advantages, the tunnel will play a crucial role in boosting the local economy. By providing year-round access to Leh, the Shinkun La Tunnel will enhance tourism and local commerce, creating new opportunities for residents and businesses in Ladakh.
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The strategic significance of the Shinkun La Tunnel cannot be overstated. It represents a vital component of India’s efforts to strengthen its infrastructure in the region, which is crucial for both national security and regional development.
Cover Image Courtesy:@PIB_India /X (Formerly, Twitter)
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