Zojila Tunnel achieves final breakthrough, bringing Kashmir-Ladakh link closer

The Zojila Tunnel, billed as the world’s longest single-tube bi-directional road tunnel at the highest altitude, achieved its final breakthrough on Tuesday, marking a major milestone in India’s infrastructure development.

GoI Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari attended the breakthrough ceremony, along with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

According to project developer Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited, the breakthrough of the 13.15km tunnel represents a landmark achievement in the country’s infrastructure history.

The tunnel is being built between Baltal in Sonamarg and Meenamarg in the Drass-Kargil sector, providing an all-weather link between Kashmir and Ladakh through one of the most challenging stretches of the Himalayas.

Officials said the breakthrough marks the completion of excavation work. While the tunnel is expected to open to the public within the next two years, it is already being hailed as a significant engineering feat. Situated at an altitude of 11,578 feet above sea level, the project is expected to transform connectivity in the region.

Once operational, the tunnel will provide year-round access between Srinagar and Ladakh, reducing disruptions caused by heavy snowfall, avalanches and harsh weather. It is expected to improve connectivity to Drass, Kargil and Leh while enhancing the movement of people, goods and essential services.

The project is also expected to bolster military logistics and operational readiness in the strategically important border region.

Officials said the tunnel will serve not only as a critical transport corridor but also as an important national asset, strengthening connectivity, economic integration and strategic resilience in the region.