SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena on Wednesday said he held discussions with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari regarding major road infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity in the Union Territory.
Called on Hon’ble Minister of Road, Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari ji, and discussed various road infrastructure projects in Ladakh – particularly the progress of Zoji La tunnel, upgradation of NH-3 in Leh city, construction of Leh Bypass and pending road projects under… pic.twitter.com/xahZ5k1MlV
— LG Ladakh (@lg_ladakh) April 21, 2026
In a post on X, the LG stated that the meeting covered the progress of the Zoji La Tunnel, upgradation of NH-3 in Leh city, construction of the Leh Bypass, and pending works under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF).
According to the LG, the Union Minister informed that the breakthrough of the Zoji La Tunnel is expected by the end of May, which will provide all-weather connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country once completed.
He further said that directives were issued to expedite pending clearances and ensure timely completion of ongoing infrastructure projects.
The LG noted that these initiatives are expected to significantly improve regional connectivity and road safety, while also boosting tourism, trade, economic activity, and employment opportunities in Ladakh.
The Zojila Tunnel is a 13.145 km-long (main tunnel) strategic project in the Himalayas, designed as Asia’s longest bi-directional road tunnel to provide year-round connectivity between Srinagar and Leh. Situated on NH-1 at over 11,500 feet, the tunnel bypasses the dangerous Zojila Pass, which closes in winter, reducing a 3.5-hour journey to 15 minutes.
