Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh deputy chief minister Chowna Mein on Monday announced that the Sela Tunnel, currently under construction, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 09 next.
Mein made the announcement while addressing the Nyokum festival celebrations at New Pitapool under Yachuli circle in Lower Subansiri district.
Once fully completed, the Sela Tunnel, stretching through the Sela–Charbela ridge that separates the Tawang district from the Dirang Circle in West Kameng district, will be the world’s longest bilane tunnel at 13,000 feet.
The tunnel is expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve accessibility for the people of the region, particularly during harsh winters when heavy snowfall and landslides often isolate the area.
Additionally, it will facilitate the army’s rapid response to security challenges and enhance its presence in the forward areas.
This strategic tunnel is being constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Vartak.
It may be mentioned here that chief minister Pema Khandu had on February 23 announced that the Sela Tunnel would be opened for public use as and when needed before its official inauguration.
The decision, Khandu said, aimed to provide all-weather connectivity for travelers to and from Tawang, addressing the challenges posed by inclement weather and road blockages in the region.
Also read: Sela Tunnel to open for public use when required: Khandu
