Context: Zojila Tunnel
The 13.14-km Zojila Tunnel witnessed its final breakthrough, bringing India closer to achieving all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh. The tunnel connects Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir with Drass–Kargil in Ladakh by bypassing the snow-bound Zojila Pass.
Zojila Tunnel: Basics
Location
- On NH-1, Srinagar–Kargil–Leh route
Length
- 13.14 km
Altitude
- 11,578 ft
Feature
- World’s longest single-tube bi-directional road tunnel at this altitude.
Pass Bypassed
- Zojila Pass, prone to snowfall and landslides
Significance
- Ensures year-round connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh.
- Improves logistics and troop movement towards Line of Actual Control areas.
- Boosts tourism, trade and regional integration.
- Reduces travel time between Ganderbal and Kargil from about 3 hours to 20 minutes.
