The strategic tunnel under Rohtang Pass, connecting Manali, Himachal Pradesh with Leh, Ladakh and Jammu Kashmir, has been named as Atal Tunnel. The tunnel will help in promoting tourism in the region.
The 8.8 km long tunnel is the world's longest tunnel above an altitude of 3,000 mtr. Once completed, it will reduce the distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km and save transport costs.
It is 10.5 mtr wide single tube bi-lane tunnel with a fireproof emergency tunnel built into the main tunnel itself. The breakthrough from both ends was achieved on 15 October 2017.
The tunnel is now nearing completion which will provide all-weather connectivity to remote border areas of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh.