India's longest road tunnel?
VerifiedAnswer: Atal Road Tunnel
Explanation:
The Atal Road Tunnel stands proudly as India's longest road tunnel, stretching an impressive 9.02 kilometers through the challenging terrain of the Pir Panjal mountain range in Himachal Pradesh. Named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, this engineering marvel represents a significant milestone in India's infrastructure development.
Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level, the tunnel connects Manali in Himachal Pradesh to the Lahaul-Spiti valley, providing year-round connectivity that was previously impossible during harsh winter months. Before its construction, the region remained cut off for nearly six months each year due to heavy snowfall on the Rohtang Pass.
The tunnel's construction began in 2010 and was completed after a decade of intensive work in 2020. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated this strategic tunnel on October 3, 2020. The project faced numerous challenges including difficult geological conditions, extreme weather, and the need to work at high altitudes where oxygen levels are significantly lower.
Key features of the Atal Road Tunnel include:
• Length: 9.02 kilometers, making it the longest road tunnel in India • Advanced ventilation systems to ensure air quality and safety • Modern lighting and communication systems throughout its length • Emergency exits and safety features for vehicle breakdowns • Reduces travel time between Manali and Keylong by approximately 4-5 hours
The tunnel holds immense strategic importance as it provides all-weather connectivity to the border areas, benefiting both civilian populations and defense operations. It has transformed the lives of people in the Lahaul-Spiti valley by ensuring access to essential supplies, medical facilities, and educational opportunities throughout the year.
The Atal Road Tunnel has also boosted tourism in the region, as visitors can now explore the beautiful landscapes of Lahaul-Spiti even during winter months. This engineering achievement showcases India's growing capabilities in infrastructure development and demonstrates how modern technology can overcome geographical challenges to connect remote communities with the rest of the country.
