PM Modi Inaugurates World's Longest Twin-Lane Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic moment by inaugurating the Sela Tunnel, the world's longest twin-lane tunnel, situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet in Arunachal Pradesh. This significant infrastructure project not only holds strategic importance but also amplifies all-weather connectivity to Tawang and other border regions near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The Sela Tunnel project, with a total cost of Rs 825 crore, consists of two tunnels and over 8 km of approach roads, spanning a length of approximately 12 km. The first tunnel, a single-tube structure stretching 980 meters, serves as a primary thoroughfare, while the second tunnel, measuring 1.5 km, acts as an emergency escape route. The completion of this ambitious project marks a crucial step towards bolstering accessibility to remote regions in Arunachal Pradesh.

Prime Minister Modi, in his address during the inauguration, emphasized the significance of the Sela Tunnel, stating, "You must have heard of 'Modi Ki Guarantee.' You will understand its significance once you visit Arunachal. The entire Northeast bears witness to this. I laid the foundation of the Sela Tunnel here in 2019, and today it has been inaugurated."

Despite facing delays attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Sela Tunnel project stands as a testament to the government's commitment to infrastructure development in the Northeast. The completion of this twin-lane tunnel is expected to streamline connectivity to Tawang and nearby areas throughout the year, overcoming geographical challenges posed by the region's high altitude.

The inauguration of the Sela Tunnel was part of a broader initiative, where Prime Minister Modi unveiled projects worth an impressive Rs 55,600 crore in the Northeast. The projects spanned across Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh, showcasing the government's comprehensive approach to regional development.

Prime Minister Modi flagged off an Arunachal Pradesh State Transport bus through the newly inaugurated tunnel, symbolizing the practical application and functionality of this major infrastructure project. The event marked a momentous occasion for the residents of Arunachal Pradesh, as well as the broader Northeast region, highlighting the government's commitment to transforming the landscape and fostering connectivity.

As the Sela Tunnel opens its lanes, it not only paves the way for smoother transportation but also reinforces the strategic importance of enhancing accessibility to border regions. The successful completion of this tunnel project is a testament to India's commitment to advancing infrastructure in challenging terrains, ensuring a brighter and more connected future for its citizens.