Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the strategically significant and world's longest twin-lane tunnel, 'Sela Tunnel' during his visit to Arunachal Pradesh on March 9. Built at a cost of Rs 825 crore, it will provide an all weather connectivity to Tawang across Sela pass on the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang road in Arunachal Pradesh.
Situated at an elevation of 13,000 feet, the tunnel is strategically important due to its proximity to the Line of actual control (LAC), PTI reported citing an official.
Here are five facts about the Sela Tunnel:
1. It has been constructed using the new Austrian tunnelling method and incorporates safety features of the highest standards.
2. The project will not only provide a faster and more efficient transport route in the region but is of strategic importance to the country.
3. The foundation stone of Sela Tunnel was laid by the Prime Minister in February 2019.
4. The project comprises two tunnels. The first is a single-tube tunnel of 980 metres in length, and the second one is 1.5 km long with an escape tube for emergencies. According to PTI, the Sela Tunnel will strengthen the Indian Army's capabilities along the Line of Actual Control by allowing for the rapid movement of troops, weaponry, and machinery to forward regions along the Sino-India border.
5. The project is one of the most essential and critical initiatives for the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the country. The execution of this enormous project required over 90 lakh man-hours, with an average of 650 workers and labourers working every day for the past five years, News18 reported citing officials. Around 71,000 metric tonnes of cement, 5,000 metric tonnes of steel, and 800 metric tonnes of explosives were utilised in the construction.
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