Atal Tunnel is a highway tunnel located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is named after former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who inaugurated the project in 2002. The tunnel is located on the Manali-Leh highway, connecting the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys in the Himalayas.
The tunnel is approximately 9.2 kilometers long and is one of the longest road tunnels in India. It is built at an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest road tunnels in the world. The construction of the tunnel was a challenging task due to the difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions in the region.
The tunnel was opened for public use in 2020 and has greatly reduced the travel time between Manali and Leh, which used to take several hours due to the treacherous mountain roads. The tunnel has also improved connectivity between the two regions, making it easier for people and goods to move across the Himalayas.
Overall, Atal Tunnel is a remarkable engineering feat and a major milestone in the development of infrastructure in the region. It has significantly improved transportation and connectivity in the area, making it a popular destination for tourists and travelers alike.
Burwa, Himachal Pradesh
India 175103