The strategically important 13.15-kilometre-long Zojila Tunnel, aimed at connecting Jammu and Kashmir with Ladakh through all-weather road access, is expected to reach a major construction milestone on June 9. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari is scheduled to initiate the breakthrough blast for the ambitious project.

The Zojila Tunnel will become the world's longest bi-directional single-tube road tunnel located at an altitude of nearly 11,500 feet. The project is expected to transform connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Kargil by ensuring uninterrupted travel throughout the year, even during harsh winter conditions when the Zojila Pass often remains inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. Constructed beneath the high-altitude Zojila Pass, the tunnel is designed to reduce dependence on the weather-prone mountain route and improve transportation, defence logistics, tourism, trade and economic development across the strategically sensitive Ladakh region.

Gadkari recently chaired detailed review meetings in New Delhi to assess the quality and maintenance of National Highway projects in Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. The discussions were conducted following concerns and feedback received through media reports and social media platforms. The meetings were attended by Union Ministers of State Ajay Tamta and Harsh Malhotra, along with senior officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), and representatives of project contractors.

According to an official statement from the ministry, the review covered highway projects spanning around 10,064 kilometres in Rajasthan and approximately 1,947 kilometres in Himachal Pradesh. Gadkari stressed the importance of completing projects on time while maintaining strict construction quality standards. The Union Minister also highlighted the need to adopt advanced technologies and modern engineering methods to build sustainable, durable and efficient highway infrastructure across India. He noted that strong highway networks are essential for boosting economic growth, improving connectivity, enhancing commuter convenience and ensuring smooth transportation across key corridors.

Gadkari directed officials and contractors to prioritise better maintenance and quality improvement of highway assets in both states. He also reviewed monsoon preparedness plans and instructed authorities to strengthen drainage systems, carry out slope protection work and undertake preventive maintenance measures to minimise disruptions during the rainy season. The ministry further stated that Gadkari asked officials to establish rapid response systems aimed at improving road safety and increasing the long-term durability of highway infrastructure. Senior officials from NHAI, MoRTH and contractors involved in various projects participated in discussions regarding ongoing infrastructure upgrades and maintenance efforts.