New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to undertake a day-long visit to Arunachal Pradesh on March 9, to inaugurate key development projects. Among these projects is the Sela Tunnel, which is pivotal for ensuring all-weather connectivity to Tawang, situated along the border with China. An official announcement stated that Modi will officiate the tunnel's dedication to the nation during a ceremony at Baisakhi in West Kameng district.
Additionally, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for approximately 20 other development initiatives before continuing his journey to neighboring Assam, the official said.
The Sela Tunnel, positioned at a high altitude of 13,000 feet, will ensure all-weather connectivity to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Its strategic significance is further underscored by its proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC), an official said, as per PTI.
Tunnel Will Enhance Indian Army’s Capabilities At LAC By Ensuing Speedy Deployment Of Troops
The construction of the tunnel near Sela Pass was necessitated by the frequent closure of the Balipara-Charidwar-Tawang Road for extended periods due to snowfall and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. .The tunnel will enhance the Indian army’s capabilities at the LAC by ensuing speedy deployment of troops, weapons and machinery to the forward areas along the Sino-India border.
The project's foundation was laid by Prime Minister Modi in February 2019, with an initial cost estimation of Rs 697 crore. However, progress on the project was impeded by various factors, including delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, reported PTI.
The project consists of two tunnels. The first tunnel is a single-tube structure spanning 980 meters in length. The second tunnel, which is 1.5 kilometers long with an escape tube for emergencies. In 1962, Chinese troops had clashed with Indian forces in the region, and significantly, Tawang town was overrun on October 24 that year.