India marked a historic moment as Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the world's longest bi-lane tunnel in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. Known as the 'Sela Tunnel', this monumental infrastructure project promises to revolutionize connectivity in the region by establishing direct road links between Sela in Arunachal Pradesh and Guwahati and Tawang, the capital of neighboring Assam.

The inauguration ceremony, held in the picturesque Sela region of Arunachal Pradesh, was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Modi himself. Amidst much anticipation and excitement, Modi officially opened the twin tunnels to the public, symbolizing a significant leap forward in India's infrastructure development endeavors.

The Sela Tunnel project, initially estimated at 697 crores, encountered several challenges during its construction phase, including delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these hurdles, the unwavering commitment of the government ensured the completion of the tunnels, albeit at an increased cost. With a total expenditure of Rs.825 crores borne by the central government, the Sela Tunnel stands as a testament to India's determination to bolster connectivity and development in its northeastern frontier.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Modi underscored the strategic importance of the Sela Tunnel in bolstering regional connectivity and facilitating economic growth. He also took the opportunity to criticize the opposition Congress party, accusing them of neglecting the development of border areas in the past.

 

The Sela Tunnel project comprises two tunnels, with the first tunnel spanning 1,000 meters in length and the second tunnel stretching an impressive 1,595 meters. Situated amidst the scenic landscapes west of Sela, these tunnels cover a combined distance of 8.6 kilometers. The second tunnel features a bi-lane tube dedicated to vehicular traffic, while an additional tube is earmarked for emergency use, ensuring safety and efficiency in transit.

The inauguration of the Sela Tunnel marks a significant milestone in India's infrastructure landscape, heralding a new era of connectivity and progress in the northeastern region. As the world's longest twin tunnel, the Sela Tunnel project symbolizes India's unwavering commitment to fostering development and prosperity across its diverse landscapes.