Manali (Himachal Pradesh) [India], October 3 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Atal Tunnel here at Rohtang on Saturday.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief General MM Naravane were also present at the inauguration ceremony, which was held shortly after 10 am.
The Atal Tunnel, at 9.02 km is the longest highway tunnel in the world, connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti Valley and will ensure movement throughout the year. Earlier, the Valley was cut off for about six months each year owing to heavy snowfall. The tunnel reduces the road distance by 46 kilometres between Manali and Leh and the time by about four to five hours.
The tunnel is built with ultra-modern specifications in the Pir Panjal range of Himalayas at an altitude of 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) from the Mean Sea Level (MSL).
The Prime Minister also enquired about the construction process, layout and other details about the Tunnel from the Army officials present.
Following this, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to address a public gathering at Sissu, Lahaul Valley. (ANI)
Readers like you, make ESHADOOT work possible. We need your support to deliver quality and positive news about India and Indian diaspora - and to keep it open for everyone. Your support is essential to continue our efforts. Every contribution, however big or small, is so valuable for our future.
Another milestone and the crucial dig which the German Company Straabag thought was impossible because the earthquake fault line was actually carried by our own major infra contractor Afcons were one of my Engineering colleagues is working. What a fitting tribute to Atalji and anyone who takes a cab from Bhuntar airport to Manali will know how treacherous the route is. This is what makes us proud to be Indian and Modiji has certainly made good his words Sab ka Saath Sab ka Vikas’ in true sense