PM Narendra Modi Launches 2.5 Km Se La Tunnel Enhancing Defence in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

From our official correspondent, we bring you a landmark development in India’s strategic infrastructure. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially inaugurated a 2.5 km tunnel under the Se La, a 4,190m mountain pass located in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh. This key measure comes as a part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security in this significant region, and to maintain preparedness in case of any potential conflicts with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

New Tunnel Rooted in Historical Challenge

The strategic construction of this tunnel is a response to the struggles India faced in the war against China in 1962. Many historical analysts suggest that insufficient military planning and ineffective political leadership led to India’s significant losses, which included the fall of significant areas like Se La and Bomdi La. This project, thus, is considered a significant milestone for India, signifying improved military and infrastructural capabilities.

Five-Year Journey to Strategic Infrastructure

This ultra-modern tunnel— a critical part of the strategic infrastructure, saw its beginnings in February 2019, when its foundation stone was laid. After five years of tireless efforts, the project has now come to fruition. Notably, Se La tunnel forms an integral part of a larger defense strategy for the Indian government, which led to the inauguration of the Nechiphu tunnel back in 2023 as well.

Tunnels Aim to Speed Up Troop Deployment in Key Areas

The completion of the Se La and Nechiphu tunnels will considerably enhance the rapid deployment of the Indian armed forces in the vital Tawang area, a region that has often been subject to China’s claim as ‘South Tibet’.

Boosting India’s Stance in Ongoing Territorial Disputes

These developments, while aimed at improving India’s military logistics and enhancing the speed of armour deployment, are also significant moves to counter infrastructural advances on the Chinese side. Furthermore, the construction of these tunnels doesn’t just bolster India’s defense posture but also symbolise the nation’s sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh— a sentiment that stands tall amidst ongoing territorial disputes in the region.