Rohtang tunnel expected to be inaugurated by PM Modi in last week of September: Jai Ram Thakur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate 8.8-km-long Rohtang tunnel, being built on Leh-Manali highway, in last week of September, Himachal Presh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said on Thursday.

He said tunnel will give all-wear connectivity to remote and border areas of state. strategically important project is being completed at a cost of around Rs 3,200 crore, he said.

" tunnel, which was a dream of Atal Bihari Vajpayee is expected to be inaugurated in last week of September by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It will give all wear connectivity to remote and border areas," chief minister told reporters here.

tunnel is one of longest ro tunnels in country and is being built at an elevation of 10,171 feet under Rohtang Pass in eastern Pir Panjal range of Himalayas. It will reduce distance between Manali and Lahual-Spiti's ministrative centre Keylong by around 45 kilometres.

He said in order to improve activities and access in border areas, state government is cooperating with Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to develop helips in areas bordering China.

In reply to a question, chief minister said state government has decided that temples will remain closed for public till August end owing to rise in number of coronavirus cases in country as well as state and in view of or infectious diseases during rainy season.

Replying to ar question, Thakur said state government desires to conduct Panchayat elections on time in state.

(Photo Credit: PTI)