Dirang: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday announced that the Sela Tunnel, currently under construction, will be opened for public use as and when needed before its official inauguration in the first week of March this year.
The decision aims to provide all-weather connectivity for travelers to and from Tawang, addressing the challenges posed by inclement weather and road blockages in the region.
“The Sela Tunnel will be opened for public use as and when required before its expected inauguration in March first week. We have communicated the same to the authorities concerned,” Khandu said while addressing a rally here.
The Sela 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.
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.
This strategic tunnel is being constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Vartak.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the Sela Tunnel in March this year.
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