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Source-This post on Sela Tunnel is based on the article “PM Modi inaugurates Sela Tunnel” published in “Live Mint” on 9th March 2024.
Why in the News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the strategically significant Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh.
About Sela Tunnel
Location– The tunnel is situated at an altitude of 13,700 feet in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, on the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang road connecting Tezpur (Assam) to Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh).
Built by– Border Road Organisation.
Project details:
a. It is world’s longest twin tunnel built at an altitude of above 13,000 feet.
b. It consists of two tunnels-
Tunnel 1, a single tube tunnel spanning 980 meters
Tunnel 2, a twin tube tunnel covering 1555 meters. Tunnel 2 has one tube for traffic and another for emergencies.
c. The tunnel was constructed using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM).
What is its Significance?
1. All weather connectivity– It is the highest tunnel in the country. It provides all-weather connectivity to Tawang via the Sela Pass, as well as to other nearby areas along the border with China near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
2. Travel time reduction– The tunnel will reduce the travel time from Tezpur to Tawang by over an hour. Travellers can avoid the risky snow-covered Sela top, which sits at 13,700 feet altitude.
UPSC Syllabus- Geography and Places in news
