Ladakh, Mar 27 (KNO): Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday said that the Government of India has approved ₹1196.22 crore for the construction of a unidirectional twin-tube tunnel along with approach roads across Fotu La Pass on National Highway-1 in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
In a post on X, Gadkari, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that NH-01 (Uri–Srinagar–Leh) traverses Fotu La at an altitude of around 4,108 metres, making it the highest point along the highway. He noted that the stretch serves as a vital strategic corridor and the primary supply route to Ladakh, but remains prone to frequent winter closures due to heavy snowfall and icing.
He further said that the existing road has steep gradients and multiple hairpin bends, posing challenges to commuters.
According to the minister, the proposed project, with a total length of 2.65 km, includes a 1.96 km twin-tube tunnel and 0.69 km of approach roads. He added that the tunnel will ensure safer, all-weather connectivity and reduce the travel distance by 8.5 km, offering significant strategic and logistical benefits.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena thanked Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for the initiative, stating that the project would significantly boost road infrastructure and tourism in the Union Territory—(KNO)