TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY
THE CONTEXT: On the verge of the fourth anniversary of the border conflict with China in eastern Ladakh, Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the strategically significant Sela Tunnel during his visit to Arunachal Pradesh.
EXPLANATION:
- This infrastructure marks a critical milestone in India’s efforts to bolster connectivity and troop movement in the challenging terrain.
Strategic Importance of Sela Tunnel
- Enhancing All-Weather Connectivity:
- Situated at an altitude of 13,800 ft, the Sela Tunnel stands as India’s highest mountain tunnel road.
- It plays a pivotal role in providing the Indian Army with a reliable all-weather link to the disputed boundary in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly crucial during harsh winter conditions.
- The tunnel’s inauguration aligns with India’s commitment to fortify its border infrastructure for strategic advantage.
Operational Significance for Indian Army
- Facilitating Rapid Mobilization:
- The Sela Tunnel offers the Indian Army a swift and dependable means for mobilizing resources, formations, and logistics during winter emergencies.
- Its accessibility, even in snowy conditions, bypasses the challenging Sela pass, proving operationally significant for troop movement in an area where India faced challenges during the 1962 war with China.
- Addressing Diplomatic Challenges:
- Given China’s persistent claims of sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh, the strategic infrastructure counters potential diplomatic tussles.
- The Line of Actual Control (LAC) incursions, a common occurrence, makes the Sela Tunnel a valuable asset in securing India’s territorial integrity.
Benefits for Civilian Population
- Reducing Travel Time:
- Apart from its military importance, the Sela Tunnel serves as a game-changer for civilians by providing all-weather connectivity to Tawang and surrounding areas.
- The tunnel substantially reduces travel time between Tawang and Tezpur by an hour, enhancing convenience for the local population.
- Safer Alternative for Travellers:
- For civilians, the tunnel offers a safer alternative to the treacherous snow-covered Sela top, making travel more secure and efficient.
- The project, valued at Rs 825 crore, adopts advanced Austrian tunneling methods and prioritizes safety features, ensuring a reliable transportation route.
Technical Details and Construction
- Border Roads Organisation’s Efforts:
- Constructed under Project Vartak by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the Sela Tunnel incorporates two tubes, including an escape tunnel, and features a nearly 9 km approach road.
- The Austrian tunnelling method employed ensures robust construction, meeting top safety standards.
- The tunnel opens on the valley side at a lower altitude towards the Tawang river, offering strategic advantages.
Broader Infrastructure Development in Himalayas and Ladakh
- Comprehensive Approach:
- The inauguration of the Sela Tunnel is part of India’s comprehensive approach to fortify border infrastructure in the western Himalayas and Ladakh.
- Multiple projects, including an approach road to the Siachen Glacier and an air force station at Nyoma, contribute to bolstering strategic capabilities.