Strategic Milestone: Zojila Tunnel Breakthrough Ensures All-Weather Connectivity to Ladakh

On June 9, 2026, India achieved a landmark infrastructure milestone with the final breakthrough of the 13.153-km Zojila Tunnel. Situated at an altitude of approximately 11,575 feet, it is the longest bi-directional road tunnel in Asia at such an elevation. This project, executed by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), establishes a permanent link between the Kashmir Valley and the Union Territory of Ladakh. Historically, the Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway (NH-1) remained closed for nearly six months every winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanches. This seasonal isolation hindered the movement of essential supplies and restricted the socio-economic growth of the Ladakh region. The tunnel reduces the travel time across the pass from over three hours to just 15 minutes, ensuring uninterrupted supply chains for food, fuel, and medicine.