Highway Ministry Approves Funding for Kela Tunnel to Improve Connectivity in Ladakh
The connectivity in the strategically vital region of Ladakh, the Centre has approved the construction of the Kela Tunnel in the Kela Pass. This crucial tunnel will connect Leh to Pangong Lake and will allow both civilians and defence forces to traverse the region throughout the year, without being hindered by harsh weather conditions. Alongside this project, the government will also fund the upgradation of the Nurbo-Sumdo-Kiato road in Himachal Pradesh, another essential infrastructure improvement for the region.
The Kela Tunnel project, which will be funded under the “Strategic Road Projects” budget heading, is expected to be a game-changer for both tourism and defence operations in the region. The tunnel will span 7-8 km and will feature twin tubes, facilitating smoother and more efficient travel. The estimated cost for this ambitious project is approximately ₹6,000 crore, highlighting the scale and significance of the development. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) will lead the preparation of the detailed project reports (DPRs) for these crucial works, aiming to fast-track the construction process. The Kela Pass, located at a height of 18,600 feet in the Changthang region of Ladakh, is currently the highest motorable pass in India. It serves as the only viable route connecting Leh to Pangong Lake, a popular tourist destination, and various remote villages in the region. Despite its strategic importance, the Kela Pass is inaccessible for large portions of the year due to extreme weather conditions. The construction of the Kela Tunnel will overcome this limitation, ensuring year-round access to the area and reducing the travel time significantly.
The proposed tunnel will not only benefit tourists visiting the picturesque Pangong Lake but will also enhance the mobility of defence forces, facilitating quicker movement between critical military posts in the region. This is especially vital given the strategic location of Ladakh, which shares borders with both China and Pakistan. With improved access, the region’s defence preparedness will be bolstered, allowing for more efficient deployment of forces and quicker response times in case of emergencies. The tunnel project is part of a larger effort by the Ladakh administration to improve infrastructure in the region, with plans to build additional tunnels at key passes such as Khardung La, Fotu La, and Namika La. These infrastructure improvements were first highlighted by the Ladakh administration in 2022 as a necessity for enhancing connectivity for both economic activities and military operations.
The Kela Tunnel project is also expected to have positive implications for the region’s tourism industry. By improving access to Pangong Lake, one of the most visited destinations in Ladakh, the tunnel will open up new opportunities for tourism-related businesses, offering visitors more convenient and safe travel options. Moreover, the construction of the tunnel will contribute to the overall economic development of the region by encouraging investment and facilitating the transportation of goods and services. The approval of funding for the Kela Tunnel is a landmark decision that will greatly improve connectivity between Leh and Pangong Lake. Not only will it reduce travel time, but it will also enhance the region’s tourism potential and strengthen its strategic importance for national security. As work begins on this transformative project, the residents of Ladakh and visitors alike are set to benefit from a smoother and more efficient journey through one of India’s most picturesque and strategically sensitive regions.
