Atal Tunnel

Why in news?

• Atal Tunnel has officially been certified by the World Book of Records, as the 'World's Longest Highway Tunnel above 10,000 Feet'

About Atal Tunnel:

• It is a highway tunnel built under the Rohtang Pass in the eastern Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas on the Leh-Manali Highway in Himachal Pradesh.
• It is constructed at an altitude of 3000 meters and is about 9.02 kilometers long, connecting Solang Valley near Manali to Sissu in Lahaul and Spiti district.

Features:

• It is constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO)
• The tunnel shall remain functional throughout the year
• It has a semi-transverse ventilation system

Benefits:

• Reduce distance and time:
  • The entire route of the tunnel will reduce the distance between Leh and Manali by 46 km and reduce the travel time by 4 hours
• Access throughout the year:
  • Because of heavy snow, the interconnecting path between Manali and Leh could not be used for almost 6 months of the year. This problem has been resolved by the construction of the Atal Tunnel. Now, using this tunnel, traveling will be possible throughout the year
• For military purpose:
  • The biggest advantage of this tunnel is that it will help the armed forces to have easy connectivity to all the border areas around
  • The transportation of troops and supplies will become more convenient for the Army Personnel
• Access to medication and basic necessities will be improved for the public.
• Increase tourism potential of region
• Ensure that farmers are able to supply the vegetables and crops on time, without any effect on the quality of the crops

PRACTICE QUESTION:

With reference to ‘Atal Tunnel’, consider the following statements:

1. It connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley

2. It remains functional throughout the year

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer