Kargil, Mar 27: In a significant step towards strengthening road connectivity in Ladakh, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has approved a Rs 1,196.22 crore tunnel project at the strategic Fotu La Pass on National Highway-1.
The announcement was made by the minister on his X handle on Friday. The project construction of a unidirectional twin-tube tunnel along with approach roads to ensure seamless all-weather connectivity on the crucial Uri–Srinagar–Leh highway.
Situated at an altitude of over 4,100 metres, Fotu La is one of the most challenging stretches on NH-1 and frequently remains closed during winters due to heavy snowfall and icy conditions, disrupting movement along the vital corridor.
The 2.65-kilometre project—comprising a 1.96-km twin-tube tunnel and 0.69 km of approach roads—is expected to significantly enhance safety by reducing steep gradients and eliminating multiple dangerous hairpin bends. Once completed, the tunnel will shorten the travel distance by nearly 8.5 kilometres, improving mobility and reducing travel time.
“In the Union Territory of Ladakh, we have approved Rs 1,196.22 crore for the construction of a unidirectional twin-tube tunnel, along with approach roads, across Fotu La Pass on National Highway 1. NH-01 (Uri–Srinagar–Leh) traverses Fotu La at an altitude of approximately 4,108 metres, making it the highest point along the highway,” Gadkari said.
He added that the stretch serves as a vital strategic corridor and the primary supply route to Ladakh but currently faces challenges due to steep gradients, multiple hairpin bends, and frequent winter closures caused by heavy snowfall and icing.
“To address these challenges, the tunnel project—spanning a total length of 2.65 km, including a 1.96 km twin-tube tunnel and 0.69 km of approach roads—will ensure safer, all-weather connectivity. Once completed, it will reduce travel distance by 8.5 km, delivering significant strategic and logistical benefits,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh V. K. Saxena expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for sanctioning the project.
“Thank you @nitin_gadkari ji for supporting UT Ladakh. This project will significantly boost road infrastructure and tourism in Ladakh,” the LG said.
Member of Parliament from Ladakh Mohd Haneefa also thanked Gadkari for approving the vital tunnel project.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to Hon’ble Union Minister Nitin Gadkari ji for approving the Rs 1,196.22 crore Fotu La tunnel project on NH-01 in Ladakh. Under your leadership, India’s road infrastructure has witnessed remarkable progress, and we are confident that this momentum will continue,” he said.
He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his continued support, adding that the project will ensure safer, all-weather connectivity and bring significant benefits to the people of Ladakh.
