GANDERBAL: The Managing Director (MD) NHIDCL, KK Pathak today visited the construction site of Zojila tunnel at Baltal, Sonamarg to have firsthand appraisal of the work progress on the tunnel.
The MD during the visit was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Shafqat Iqbal, Executive Director-III, Sanjiv Malik, Officiating Executive Director, ASP Ganderbal, RO-Ladakh and Srinagar besides other concerned officials.
During the visit, MD reviewed the works going on East and West Portals of Zojila tunnel and was briefed about the pace and progress made on it.
The team was informed that despite the snowfall the work process was going on smoothly on Zojila tunnel.
After an on ground review of East & West Portals of Zojila tunnel, the team visited and reviewed the progress of the approach road of Zojila Tunnel where two more tunnels are being constructed.
Pathak directed the officials of the executing agency to expedite pace of works on the ambitious project so that targets are achieved within the stipulated time frame. He also directed the Authority’s Engineer to closely monitor all the construction/ planning activities.
Pertinently, 14.15 km long Zojila tunnel once completed will facilitate all weather road connectivity between Srinagar and Kargil which mainly remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall in the area and will reduce travel time also.
The tunnel will also benefit social and economic development of the region apart from boosting the tourism in Sonamarg region as well as Ladakh region.
