Government considers Rs 60 Bn tunnel to link Leh with Pangong

19 Nov 2024 CW Team

The government is weighing options for the construction of a 7-8 km twin tube tunnel through Kela pass, which has been proposed by the UT administration of Ladakh, as per a TOI report. The tunnel is expected to facilitate smooth movement of travellers and military personnel between Leh and Pangong Lake.

TOI says that the home ministry held meetings on the issue this week. The project is likely to cost around Rs 6,000 crore, sources said. "It's a tough and high-cost project. A call is likely to be taken soon. It's a strategic road and will reduce the travel time from Leh to Pangong substantially. The project is at a very nascent stage," a source said.

Sources said options are being explored whether Border Road Organisation or the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation under the road transport ministry would build the strategic tunnel to provide all-weather connectivity.

Kela pass is the highest motorable pass of the country connecting Leh with Pangong lake. Its altitude is 18,600 ft from mean sea level.

Aiming to improve connectivity for tourism, economic activities and smooth movement of defence forces, the Ladakh administration in 2022 had first stressed the need for new tunnels at four passes at Khardung La, Fotu La, Namika La and Kela.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..