Multisector conglomerate Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd has completed the halfway mark in the excavation works of Zojila Tunnel in the Himalayan range, amid adverse weather conditions, including blizzards and constant snowfall.
This feat could be achieved in the shortest possible time.
The MEIL has carved a niche for itself by boring a tunnel in the mighty Himalayas, a first of its kind in such a geographical zone, which provides year-long connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh under all weather conditions.
This is Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel and brings down distance and also commute time between the two regions. The commute time between Sonamarg and Meenamarg is presently four hours, while it drastically comes down to just 40 minutes.
The MEIL is executing the project for the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), a Ministry of Road Transport and Highways undertaking. The Zojila works were launched earlier by Transport and Roadways Minister, Nitin Gadkari.
It is a strategic connection between Srinagar and Leh. This part of the Silk Route is most crucial for Defence as well as economy of the region. This is a key project that will contribute to the integrated development of the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh regions.
The MEIL is executing the Zojila Project with its engineering expertise and advanced New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), using modern machinery like snow blowers, pavers and specialized boomers.
The company has carried out the works in sub-zero temperatures, especially at minus 40 degrees Celsius, in high altitude. It is, in fact, difficult to execute drilling and civil works in that terrain which has hard rocks and heavy seepage. But, the MEIL, which is synonymous to early completion of projects, is executing the works with diligence.
The tunnel excavation works are completed to an extent of almost half the length – seven kms or 7,000 metres — as of now. The project has four bridges with a total length of 815 metres to cross the river on the Zojila route. The substructures and foundations for the bridges are completed.