Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually initiate the construction of the Shinkun La tunnel, a strategic 4.1 km twin-tube tunnel located at 15,800 feet, under the challenging Shinkun Pass on the Nimu-Padam-Darcha road. The project, managed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), was approved last February by the cabinet committee on security and is estimated to cost ₹1,681 crore. This tunnel, upon completion, will surpass the Mi La tunnel in China as the world’s highest, facilitating rapid troop movement and economic development in Ladakh.
Despite the challenging terrain and weather conditions along India’s northern borders, tunnel construction remains a priority, especially in light of the ongoing military standoff in eastern Ladakh. Recently, the Sela tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh was inaugurated, and several other tunnels are either under construction or being planned, potentially for use as underground storage for military supplies.
The Shinkun La tunnel, featuring cross-passages every 500 meters, is expected to be completed in at least two years. Its strategic importance is underscored by its role in ensuring all-weather connectivity on the Nimu-Padam-Darcha road, the third route to Ladakh, which becomes inaccessible for five months each year due to snow at the Shinkun Pass.
Modi, accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and military leaders, will conduct the groundbreaking ceremony during his visit to the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, marking the 25th anniversary of the Kargil conflict.
India continues to work on reducing the infrastructure gap with China along the 3,488-km Line of Actual Control, which includes building roads, tunnels, bridges, troop habitats, and military positions. However, significant efforts are still needed to match China’s pace of development in the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiation of the Shinkun La tunnel project marks a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development. As the world’s highest tunnel, it will enhance strategic connectivity and troop mobility in the challenging terrains of Ladakh. This ambitious project not only underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its defence infrastructure but also aims to promote economic growth and accessibility in the region. The Shinkun La tunnel is expected to play a crucial role in improving all-weather access and operational readiness along the northern borders, showcasing India’s resolve to strengthen its strategic positions amid ongoing regional challenges.
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