Northeast Desk, 9th March: In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Sela Tunnel project today, aimed at enhancing connectivity in Arunachal Pradesh. The tunnel, constructed at an altitude of 13,000 feet on the road connecting Tezpur to Tawang, comes with a total cost of Rs 825 Crore.
The ceremony, held virtually from Itanagar, saw the presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju. The Sela Tunnel project aims to provide all-weather connectivity to the Tawang region, addressing challenges posed by treacherous terrains. Prime Minister Modi expressed satisfaction with the completion of the tunnel, praising the dedicated efforts of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
Part of the Balipara-Charduar-Tawang Road, a crucial axis connecting Tawang Region, the tunnel consists of two parts with lengths of 1003 m and 1595 m, constructed using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM). Overcoming challenges such as freezing temperatures and adherence to COVID protocols, the project is expected to significantly enhance defense preparedness in the Tawang Sector and foster socio-economic development.
The tunnel will provide an alternative to the previous route, known for single-lane connectivity and treacherous bends, facilitating easier access for heavy vehicles to Tawang. With reduced travel distance by more than eight kilometers and travel time by an hour, the Sela Tunnel will improve the quality of life for people in the region.
Prime Minister Modi commended BRO’s efforts, emphasizing their commitment to providing last-mile connectivity to remote border areas. The inauguration was followed by the flagging off of the first civilian convoy from Tawang, symbolizing the practical impact of enhanced connectivity.
The success of the Sela Tunnel Project underscores BRO’s continuous efforts in infrastructure development along the borders. Future strategic projects, including the Shinkun La Tunnel, will further strengthen all-weather connectivity to key regions, ensuring better accessibility and logistical capabilities.
As the Sela Tunnel opens, it represents a landmark achievement in infrastructure development, reflecting the government’s commitment and organizations like BRO’s dedication to bringing prosperity to remote areas.
Read More: PM Modi Criticizes Previous UPA Government’s Neglect of Northeastern Border Villages