Shinkun La tunnel: Indian PM Modi makes 'first blast' of world's highest tunnel in Ladakh - Top features
Modi launches work at world's highest tunnel in Ladakh
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (July 26) carried out the first blast of the Shinkun La tunnel in the Union Territory of Ladakh, which when completed will be the world's highest tunnel. The blast was carried out through a remote switch by Modi on Kargil Vijay Diwas, the day when India won the Kargil war against Pakistan in 1999.It was held at a ceremony in Drass, after an address by the Indian PM to mark the Kargil victory day.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: "The Shinkun La Tunnel is a pioneering infrastructure project which will boost connectivity to Leh and enhance tourism as well as commerce".
Here are the top unique features of the tunnel:
What are the unique features of the Shinkun La tunnel?
Shinkun La is a twin tube tunnel whichwhen completed will run 4.1 kilometres in length. It is expected to provide all-weather transport connectivity between the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The twin tube tunnel will have cross-passages at every 500 metres. The tunnel will cut down travelling time by around 30 minutes.
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World's highest tunnel
The tunnel will be located at an elevation of 4,800 metres, which will make it the world's highest. Being built by the Border Roads Organisation, the tunnel will enable commuting in an area that usually is buried under snow of up to 20 feet for around five months every year during harsh winter.
Shinkun La: A strategic tunnel during wartime
In case of a war in future, the tunnel can be used by theIndian armed forces for quick transport of personnel, armamentsand material. It is a region where India has had border clashes with China, as well as Pakistan.
A boost for Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh
The tunnel is also expected to add to the infrastructure development of Ladakh and help in its economy. It will also help in tourist inflow to both Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.
Navigating a tough terrain
Ladakh, nestled in the Himalayan mountain region, is one of the toughest terrains in India. India has been building several projects that will prepare the region for war time, and provide it much-needed infrastructure development. Border area development is one of the key prioritiesof the Modi government, which has been building roads, bridges and tunnels in the region.
(With inputs from agencies)
