Srinagar, Sep 10 (KNS): A 13-member media delegation from the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Kochi, on Thursday visited the Zojila Main Tunnel Project as part of an ongoing press tour to Jammu and Kashmir, receiving first-hand information about the progress, construction activities and strategic significance of the major infrastructure project connecting Jammu and Kashmir with Ladakh.

The visit was part of the fourth day of the press tour.

The Zojila Tunnel Project is being implemented by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).

During the visit, Yousaf Es'haghpour Rahimabadi, Team Leader of the Authority Engineer for NHIDCL Zojila Road and Tunnel Projects, briefed the delegation about the ongoing construction work and safety measures being adopted at the project.

He highlighted the strategic importance of the project, particularly in strengthening logistical support and ensuring reliable connectivity to Ladakh.

The Zojila Main Tunnel is approximately 13.15 kilometres long and is being constructed as a bi-directional tunnel between Baltal in Jammu and Kashmir and Minamarg in Ladakh.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The tunnel is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh by reducing travel time across the Zojila Pass from around 2–3.5 hours to approximately 20–30 minutes.

It is also expected to provide all-weather connectivity by overcoming the prolonged winter closure of the Zojila Pass, which earlier remained inaccessible for nearly five to six months due to heavy snowfall.

During the interaction, Yousaf highlighted the extensive safety arrangements incorporated into the project and said the tunnel would facilitate the movement of essential commodities and fuel towards Ladakh while improving travel time, safety and logistical efficiency.

He also said the project would generate employment opportunities and contribute to economic development in the region.

The media delegation later visited Sonamarg, where the journalists experienced the scenic landscape and lush greenery of Jammu and Kashmir.(KNS)