By ashleykaren
The Union Cabinet has confirmed the strategically crucial 4.1-km Shinkun La Tunnel that would provide all-weather connectivity between Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.
Union minister Anurag Thakur provided details of the cabinet decision and stated that the tunnel will be finished by December 2025 at Rs 1,681 crore.
In addition, an approach will be made by December 2025.
He said that the Shinkun La tunnel will assure all-weather road connectivity to Ladakh and this will be the shortest route to the border areas of the Union territory.
Thakur claimed: “The Cabinet Committee on Security today approved the Shinku La tunnel for Ladakh area which will provide all-weather connectivity to the Ladakh region with the entire country.”
He also added: “This (project) is also very important as far as the security and safety of the country is concerned…. It will also help in the movement of our security forces in that region.”
Tashi Gyalson, the Chairman and CEC, LAHDC Leh, has extended gratitude to the Union Cabinet for approving construction of Shinku La Tunnel.
He expressed: “Ladakh has added another feather to its cap as the construction of Shinku La Tunnel will lead to ease up the grievances of the stranded passengers especially during winter and will also provide additional employment opportunities. My gratitude to PM Modi for approving the construction of the tunnel and I also thank MP Ladakh for his contribution.”
