Northeast Desk, 24th February: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu took swift action to alleviate the plight of hundreds of stranded tourists and citizens near Tawang, close to the Indo-China border, following a severe two-day snowstorm in the region.
The adverse weather conditions prompted a warning of potential avalanches, exacerbating the situation for those trapped in the snowbound area.
Responding to the crisis, Khandu directed the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to open the Sela Tunnel, which is currently under construction, for immediate public use. This decision aims to ensure all-weather connectivity for travelers to and from Tawang, particularly during inclement weather conditions.
The Sela Tunnel, slated for inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March, promises to significantly reduce travel time and enhance accessibility, especially during harsh winters characterized by heavy snowfall.
Grateful tourists, including senior citizens from Mumbai, lauded the efforts of the SSB and army personnel who provided them with shelter and facilitated their rescue through the tunnel. Despite the challenging circumstances, tourists likened the breathtaking beauty of Arunachal Pradesh to Switzerland, emphasizing the memorable experience despite the snowstorm ordeal.
The Sela Tunnel project, undertaken by Patel Engineering Ltd., comprises two tunnels spanning 980m and 1555m respectively, along with 8.780 km of approach roads. Once completed, the tunnel, situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet and stretching through the Sela–Charbela ridge, will be the world’s longest bilane tunnel.
This strategic infrastructure initiative, constructed under Project Vartak by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), holds immense significance for enhancing regional connectivity and facilitating the army’s rapid response to security challenges in the forward areas. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Sela Tunnel in March, marking a milestone in improving accessibility and resilience in the region.
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