Highway Ministry Approves ₹6,000 Crore Kela Tunnel Project in Ladakh
The Indian government has given its approval for a strategic infrastructure project that will significantly enhance connectivity in the Ladakh region. The Highway Ministry has sanctioned the construction of a tunnel through the Kela Pass, a critical route connecting Leh to Pangong Lake, alongside the upgradation of the Nurbo-Sumdo-Kiato road in Himachal Pradesh. This project is part of the government’s dedicated efforts to develop strategic road networks and is backed by a special budget heading for Strategic Road Projects.
The Kela Tunnel, one of the most anticipated developments for the region, will offer a crucial link to Pangong Lake, which, until now, faced severe connectivity challenges due to the extreme weather conditions prevalent in the area. The region, located at one of the highest altitudes in India, often experiences harsh winter conditions, making travel difficult for both civilians and defence personnel. The construction of this tunnel will provide year-round access, overcoming the obstacles posed by the weather, and will support both tourism and strategic defence operations. The tunnel will stretch over 7-8 km, with twin tubes, and is estimated to cost around ₹6,000 crore. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), which has been tasked with the project’s execution, will soon begin preparing the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the tunnel and the road upgradation. Once completed, the tunnel will significantly reduce the travel time between Leh and Pangong Lake, becoming a vital asset for both civilian and military needs in the region.
Kela Pass, located at an altitude of 18,600 feet, is one of India’s highest motorable passes. It is a key gateway to Kela Tso (Lake) and connects several scenic villages, including Tharuk, Sarkunchar, and Tangste. Pangong Lake, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Ladakh, will also benefit from this improved connectivity, promoting tourism and economic activities in the area. This project was initially proposed by the Ladakh Union Territory administration in 2022, highlighting the need to build tunnels at major passes, including Khardung La, Fotu La, Namika La, and Kela, to improve road infrastructure and facilitate the smooth movement of people and defence forces. The government’s approval of the Kela Tunnel is a testament to its commitment to enhancing infrastructure in the strategically significant region of Ladakh.
With this development, the government aims to boost tourism, facilitate better economic connectivity, and ensure that the region is more accessible to defence forces. The approval of the Kela Tunnel will play a vital role in strengthening India’s defence readiness while fostering greater integration of Ladakh with the rest of the country. For the people of Ladakh, the Kela Tunnel project is a welcome development. It promises to enhance the quality of life in the region by providing easier and faster access to essential services, improving transportation for locals, and increasing tourism opportunities. The project also reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to bolster infrastructure in border areas, ensuring that remote regions like Ladakh are no longer left behind in terms of connectivity and development. As the project moves forward, the collaboration between the Ministry of Road Transport and the Border Roads Organisation will be crucial in ensuring that the tunnel is completed on time and to the highest standards, enabling the region to reap the benefits of enhanced connectivity and improved strategic capabilities.
