SAIL Fuels India’s Longest Road Tunnel: Over 31,000 Tonnes of Steel Supplied to Zojila Tunnel Project.
New Delhi:
In a major milestone for India’s infrastructure development, the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), the country’s largest steel-making Maharatna PSU, has supplied over 31,000 tonnes of steel to the under-construction Zojila Tunnel — which, once completed, will be India’s longest road tunnel and the longest bi-directional tunnel in Asia.
Positioned strategically at an altitude of 11,578 feet in the challenging terrain of the Himalayas, the Zojila Tunnel is a vital component of the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National Highway. Spanning over 30 kilometers, it is poised to provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Leh via Dras and Kargil — dramatically improving civilian and military access in the remote region.
SAIL has emerged as the single largest steel supplier for this prestigious project, contributing a diverse mix of high-quality steel products including TMT Re-bars, Structurals, and Plates. This continuous supply reflects SAIL’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the nation’s core infrastructure. The tunnel is expected to be completed by 2027.
“This is more than just steel — it’s about nation-building,” stated a SAIL spokesperson. “Mega projects like the Zojila Tunnel trust SAIL for strength, reliability, and quality, and we take pride in supporting infrastructure that brings strategic, economic, and social value to the country.”
The Zojila Tunnel is more than an engineering feat — it’s a symbol of progress and connectivity. Once operational, it will greatly enhance logistics, tourism, and defense preparedness in the region by eliminating winter closures and ensuring round-the-year road access across the Himalayas.
This isn’t the first time SAIL has played a key role in iconic infrastructure ventures. The company has been a trusted backbone for projects like the Chenab Railway Bridge, Atal Tunnel, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Dhola Sadiya Bridge, and the Bogibeel Bridge, reinforcing its critical role in India’s development story.
As India continues to invest in strategic infrastructure, SAIL’s contributions stand as a testament to the enduring power of indigenous capability and commitment to national progress.
