MUMBAI, June 10, 2026 : Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to name the two portals of the strategically significant Zojila Tunnel after Brigadier Mohammed Usman, the celebrated hero of the 1947-48 Indo-Pak War, and Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida, the renowned 8th-century ruler of Kashmir.
The proposal comes a day after the Zojila Tunnel project achieved a major engineering milestone with the successful breakthrough of its main tunnel, bringing India closer to establishing all-weather connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.
Historic Breakthrough for Strategic Tunnel Project
The Rs 6,800-crore Zojila Tunnel Project, regarded as one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure initiatives, achieved a significant breakthrough on June 9, 2026, when engineers successfully blasted through the final 2.5 metres of the 13-kilometre tunnel.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari conducted the breakthrough blasting ceremony at the project site located at an altitude of approximately 11,578 feet above sea level, around 24 kilometres from Sonamarg and 103 kilometres from Srinagar.
Upon completion, the tunnel is expected to provide year-round road connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, eliminating the seasonal disruptions caused by heavy snowfall at the Zojila Pass.
Officials have indicated that the tunnel is likely to be opened to the public in February 2028.
Proposal Sent to Prime Minister
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sanjay Raut described the Zojila Tunnel as one of the most remarkable infrastructure achievements undertaken in independent India.
He stated that the project would significantly enhance national security, strengthen regional connectivity, boost economic growth, promote tourism, and further integrate strategically important regions of the country.
Raut proposed that the two tunnel portals be named after two historic personalities who represent different yet complementary aspects of India’s national legacy.
Sonamarg Portal Proposed After Brigadier Mohammed Usman
According to the proposal, the Sonamarg/Kashmir portal should be named after Brigadier Mohammed Usman, one of India’s most respected military heroes.
The “Lion of Naushera”
Brigadier Usman earned legendary status during the 1947-48 Indo-Pak War, where he played a crucial role in defending Naushera and Jhangar in Jammu and Kashmir against enemy forces.
Raut highlighted that despite being offered a high-ranking position in Pakistan following Partition, Brigadier Usman chose to remain with India and dedicated his service to the nation.
He was martyred on July 3, 1948, while leading military operations and was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award.
Raut described him as a symbol of patriotism, courage, sacrifice, and national unity.
Drass Portal Proposed After Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida
The Drass/Ladakh portal, Raut suggested, should be named after Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida, one of Kashmir’s most influential historical rulers.
Architect of Kashmir’s Golden Era
Lalitaditya Muktapida ruled Kashmir during the 8th century under the Karkota dynasty and is widely remembered for expanding his kingdom’s influence across parts of Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Tibet.
He is also credited with transforming Kashmir into a major centre of culture, architecture, trade, and military strength.
Among his most enduring legacies is the construction of the iconic Martand Sun Temple, regarded as one of the finest examples of ancient Indian architecture.
Message of Unity and National Integration
In his letter, Raut emphasized that naming the tunnel portals after Brigadier Usman and Lalitaditya would honor both India’s military heritage and its rich civilizational history.
He stated that such a decision would send a powerful message of:
- National unity
- Cultural inclusiveness
- Respect for historical legacy
- Recognition of military sacrifice
- Integration of diverse traditions into the national narrative
According to Raut, the gesture would celebrate individuals who contributed to India’s strength in different eras while reinforcing the values of unity in diversity.
Zojila Tunnel’s Strategic Importance
The Zojila Tunnel is expected to transform connectivity in the Himalayan region by providing uninterrupted access between Kashmir and Ladakh throughout the year.
The project is considered vital for:
- National security and military logistics.
- Faster movement of troops and equipment.
- Improved transportation and trade.
- Tourism development.
- Socio-economic growth in remote regions.
- Enhanced connectivity for local communities.
Once operational, the tunnel will significantly reduce travel disruptions caused by harsh winter conditions and strengthen connectivity in one of India’s most strategically important regions.
As the project moves toward completion, the proposal to commemorate two iconic figures through its portals has added a new dimension to the discussion surrounding one of the country’s most significant infrastructure achievements.
