PM Modi to launch India's longest road tunnel in J&K
What's the story
PM Modi will visiting the northern-most state of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, where he will launch India's longest tunnel, Zojila (14-km), which will also be Asia's longest bidirectional tunnel. Zojila pass will bring all weather connectivity between Kashmir valley and Ladakh, an important strategic location bordering China. The project will cost Rs. 6,809 crore and is scheduled to be completed by 2026.
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Commencement of work to begin in Leh
"The Prime Minister will attend the commencement of work on Zojila tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway at an event in Jive-tsal in Leh tomorrow," said a government official.
Details
Zojila will reduce travel time to 15 mins
Zojila will connect Srinagar, Kargil and Leh, the travel time on this snow-bound route is frequently disrupted by avalanches, affecting healthcare, education and business and also prevents the supply of essential goods. The tunnel will shorten travel time from 3.5 hours to 15 minutes, will make the commute safer and shall boost socio-economic integration between the region, especially in the backward districts of J&K.
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Modi's visit and birth centenary of 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche
PM Modi's visit coincides with the birth anniversary of 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, a renowned Buddhist Lama who also served as India's ambassador to Mongolia. Modi will also attend the closing ceremony of his birth centenary in Leh.