PM Modi inaugurates Sela Tunnel: All you need to know about world's longest twin-lane passageway near China border

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the strategically significant Sela Tunnel project during his day-long visit to Arunachal Pradesh on March 9. Built with a total cost of ₹825 crore by the (BRO), the tunnel is situated at an altitude of 13,700 feet in West Kameng district on the road connecting Tezpur to Tawang in .

Among other things, Sela is the country's highest tunnel providing all-weather connectivity to the strategic Tawang region and other forward areas bordering China near the (LAC). 

The tunnel will also reduce more than one hour of travelling time from Tezpur to Tawang. ​Travellers would be able to avoid the dangerous snow-covered Sela top at a height of 13,700 feet, according to a statement from Prime Minister's office. ​

The project is built at an altitude of above 13,000 feet. It comprises Tunnel 1, which is a 980 m long single tube tunnel, and Tunnel 2, which is a 1555 m long twin tube tunnel. Tunnel 2 has one bi-lane tube for traffic and one escape tube for emergencies. It also includes the construction of an approach road of seven kilometres to Tunnel 1, which takes off from BCT Road, and a link road of 1.3 kilometres, which connects Tunnel 1 to Tunnel 2.

The PMO statement said it is an engineering marvel and will provide all-weather connectivity to across the Sela pass on the in Arunachal Pradesh. The tunnel was built using the new Austrian Tunnelling Method and incorporating safety features of the highest standards.

"The project will not only provide a faster and more efficient transport route in the region but is of strategic importance to the country," the said. The tunnel will be a lifeline as it will provide all-weather connectivity to .

The foundation stone of the Project was laid by the On