The Zojila Tunnel, one of India's most challenging infrastructure projects, is set to reach a historic milestone with the breakthrough blasting of its main tunnel on June 9, 2026. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, will attend the ceremony, marking a major step towards enhancing all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh.

Constructed by MEIL for the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, the project began in October 2020 and uses the advanced New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM). The tunnel is expected to boost tourism, trade, and regional development while overcoming seasonal closures caused by heavy snowfall and avalanches at the Zojila Pass.

Despite facing five avalanche incidents and harsh weather conditions, more than 1,200 workers have contributed to the project, achieving 10 million safe man-hours and bringing the landmark tunnel closer to completion.