In a significant stride toward bolstering India’s operational readiness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sela Tunnel on Saturday, March 9. The tunnel, a crucial border infrastructure initiative, is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing swift military mobilisation to the strategically important Tawang sector, contributing to a more responsive defence mechanism.
Constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) at an altitude of approximately 13,000 feet, the Sela Tunnel, with an investment of Rs 825 crore, offers an all-weather link between Guwahati and the Tawang sector throughout the year. This infrastructure leap is particularly noteworthy for its ability to significantly reduce road distance, saving nearly 10 km, and consequently trimming convoy travel time by nearly an hour. The Sela Tunnel project was meticulously executed to establish seamless connectivity to Tawang across the challenging Sela Pass on the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang (BCT) Road. This crucial artery links Tezpur in Assam to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, creating an efficient transportation network in a region of strategic importance.
The inauguration of the Sela Tunnel is a testament to India’s commitment to bolstering border infrastructure, ensuring the swift movement of troops and supplies to critical areas. With its dedication to the nation, the tunnel not only offers operational advantages along the LAC but also stands as a symbol of India’s preparedness and strategic fortification. As India continues to prioritise its border infrastructure projects, the Sela Tunnel emerges as a beacon of progress, facilitating enhanced connectivity and operational flexibility in the challenging terrains of the Tawang sector.
