New Delhi. The central government is taking big initiatives to make the movement of people to the China border more easy and smooth. Under this, new roads, bridges and tunnels are being constructed to strengthen the infrastructure in the border areas. Now, the government is seriously considering building a tunnel to ensure all-weather movement from Leh to Pangong Lake. This tunnel will be built from below the Kela Pass, whose length will be about 8 kilometers. This project is estimated to cost approximately Rs 6000 crore.
The construction of this tunnel will save time in reaching Pangong Lake from Leh and the border area will remain connected to other parts of the country even in bad weather. At present, to reach Pangong one has to pass through Kela Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 18,600 feet above sea level and is the highest pass in the country. Crossing this pass is risky and it takes a lot of time to travel here. These problems will be solved after the tunnel is built. The Home Ministry has recently held meetings regarding this project. Additionally, in 2022, the Ladakh administration had proposed construction of four new tunnels at Khardung La, Fotu La, Namika La and Kela Pass. The construction of these tunnels will boost tourism and economic activities in the area, and will also make the movement of defense forces faster and easier.
Regarding the construction of this tunnel, discussions are going on between the Border Road Organization and the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation under the Ministry of Road Transport as to who will be given the responsibility of this project. According to sources, this project is a challenging and expensive plan, but it is considered extremely important from a strategic point of view. Soon a decision can be taken on this project, which will play an important role in the strategic development of Ladakh.