Zojila Pass: Gateway to Ladakh Reopens Without Prior Authorisation
- vidyarthee2021
- May 1
- 2 min read
The strategically significant Zojila Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in India, is now open to tourists without the need for prior authorisation or a No-Objection Certificate (NOC). This development is set to boost tourism and enhance connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, especially during the tourist season.
Key Facts About Zojila Pass
Elevation: Approximately 3,528 meters (11,649 feet) above sea level.
Location: Lies on National Highway 1 (NH-1), connecting Srinagar to Leh.
Acts as a crucial link between the Kashmir Valley and the Drass Valley, thus facilitating movement between the two key regions.
Considered the second-highest pass on the Srinagar-Leh route, after Fotu La Pass.
Known for harsh weather, heavy snowfall, and challenging terrain, making it one of the most treacherous routes in the Himalayas.
Zojila Tunnel Project
Launched in 2018, the Zojila Tunnel is a major infrastructure initiative aimed at ensuring all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Leh.
Upon completion, it will become the longest bi-directional tunnel in Asia, significantly reducing travel time and increasing accessibility, particularly during winter when the pass is often snowbound.
The project holds strategic military importance, especially in the backdrop of India’s northern border infrastructure development.
Relevance for UPSC Aspirants
Zojila Pass features in topics under Geography (Physical features of India), Infrastructure (GS Paper 3), and India’s Border Areas.
Understanding such strategic passes is essential for questions related to India’s defence, tourism, and border management.
The tunnel project is part of broader connectivity projects under the Bharatmala Pariyojana and aligns with India’s efforts to counterbalance border threats through infrastructure.
UPSC Prelims Question
Consider the following statements about Zojila Pass:
It connects the Kashmir Valley with the Zanskar Valley in Himachal Pradesh.
Zojila Tunnel, once completed, will be the longest bi-directional tunnel in Asia.
Zojila Pass lies on National Highway 1 between Srinagar and Leh.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All of the above
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect – Zojila Pass connects Kashmir Valley and Drass Valley, not Zanskar or Himachal Pradesh.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct.
UPSC Mains Question
Discuss the strategic and economic significance of mountain passes like Zojila for India. How can infrastructure projects such as the Zojila Tunnel enhance regional development and national security? (GS Paper 3)
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