Heralding a new era in the connectivity of roads and bridges, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday laid the foundation stone for the strategically important Neziphu tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh.

The 450 m-long Bi-tunnel would ensure all weather connectivity across Nechiphu Pass besides providing a safe and secure passage through accident prone areas. Another 1.8 km-long tunnel is also being constructed on the BCT road, which will reduce the distance to the area bordering China by 10km.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh said that the Neziphu tunnel will be crucial not only for the armed forces but also for the local civilian population in places like Bhalukpong and Tawang. The all-weather tunnel will reduce the travel time to Tawang bordering China.

Besides this, the Defence Minister also inaugurated 43 BRO-made bridges across 7 Border States of the country, including 7 in Arunachal and 4 in Sikkim.

Also speaking on the occasion, Arunachal chief minister Pema Khandu lauded the Border Roads organization (BRO) for their relentless efforts. Khandu informed that the Neziphu tunnel and the other newly inaugurated projects that include eight bridges in Arunachal, will provide connectivity to more than 300 villages and will also enable faster military movement in the borders.