Ganderbal, Aug 26: The work on the all-important 13km long Zojila tunnel connecting J&K with Ladakh is going on smooth with good pace and the project completion is expected well before the deadline set for 2026.

This was briefed to media by the Managing Director of the executing agency NHIDCL at the western side of the tunnel at Baltal, Sonamarg.

MD was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Krittika Jyotsna-IAS and other officers of NHIDCL, Meil and the district administration Ganderbal.

MD had come to inspect the ongoing work on the tunnel project and expressed his satisfaction. He said the project construction is going well and they are sure that the tunnel will get through for the all weather traffic well before 2026.

Meanwhile, DC Ganderbal said that the first phase of the tunnel project, Z-mohr is almost complete and the administration is hopeful to open the tunnel for hassle free movement of civilian and security transport this coming winter season. knt