Srinagar, March 12,2026- The Zojila Tunnel, a ₹6,800-crore infrastructure project, is set to become a landmark engineering achievement that will significantly improve connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh. Stretching 13.14 kilometres beneath the Zoji La pass, the tunnel is designed to provide all-weather road connectivity, ending the months-long winter isolation faced by residents of Ladakh.
Currently, the Zoji La pass, located on the Srinagar–Leh highway, remains closed for several months every year due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions. The construction of the tunnel will ensure uninterrupted travel throughout the year, facilitating smoother movement of people, goods, and essential services between the two regions.
Officials say the project will not only boost regional connectivity but also play a crucial role in strengthening economic development, tourism, and strategic mobility in the region. The tunnel is expected to drastically reduce travel time across the pass while providing a safer and more reliable route for commuters.
Once completed, the Zojila Tunnel will stand as one of India’s longest road tunnels in high-altitude terrain, marking a major step forward in the country’s infrastructure development in the Himalayan region. The project is also expected to bring new opportunities for local businesses, enhance tourism potential, and improve the quality of life for residents in Ladakh and surrounding areas.
