By Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (GODL-India), GODL-India
India Advances Infrastructure with ₹49,000 Crore Tunnel Projects
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has announced the construction of 75 tunnel projects across India, collectively worth ₹49,000 crore.
These projects are part of the government’s efforts to enhance connectivity in remote areas, improve infrastructure, and boost economic growth.
Major Tunnel Projects Underway
Gadkari revealed that the tunnel projects are in various stages of construction and are strategically located to address connectivity challenges in difficult terrains. “Around 75 tunnel projects worth ₹49,000 crore are under construction,” Gadkari said, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing transport networks.
Among these, the Zojila Tunnel and the Z-Morh Tunnel are key developments. The Zojila Tunnel, expected to be the longest tunnel in Asia upon completion, aims to connect Srinagar with Leh, providing all-weather connectivity in the region. Similarly, the Z-Morh Tunnel will improve access to the Sonmarg area in Jammu and Kashmir, promoting tourism and trade.
Transforming Connectivity in Challenging Terrains
These tunnels are designed to traverse some of India’s most challenging landscapes, ensuring year-round connectivity for regions often cut off by adverse weather conditions. The projects aim to reduce travel time, lower logistics costs, and provide seamless access to vital economic zones.
The ongoing projects span various states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the northeastern region, where topography has long posed obstacles to infrastructure development.
Boost to Economic Growth and Tourism
The ambitious tunnel construction initiative is expected to contribute significantly to India’s economic growth by reducing transportation barriers and fostering trade. Moreover, improved access to remote regions is anticipated to boost tourism, creating new opportunities for local communities.
These projects align with the government’s vision of modernizing infrastructure under the National Infrastructure Pipeline, enhancing India’s competitiveness on the global stage.
As construction progresses, these tunnels will stand as a testament to India’s engineering prowess and its resolve to improve infrastructure for inclusive and sustainable development.
