In a significant development for tourism and connectivity in Arunachal Pradesh, the Sela Tunnel on the National Highway 13, has been officially inaugurated and opened for operation. Situated at 13,000 feet above sea-level and amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Arunachal’s trans-himalayan region which remains usually snow-covered to some extent throughout the year, the tunnel promises to revolutionize travel along the Guwahati-Bomdila-Dirang-Tawang Tourist Circuit with all year round accessibility.
Constructed under Project Vartak by Patel Engineering Ltd. for the Border Roads Organization (BRO), the Sela Tunnel comprises two tunnels and a vital link road. Tunnel 1, spanning 980 meters, boasts a single-tube design, while Tunnel 2 stretches 1,555 meters and features a bi-lane configuration, with one tube dedicated to traffic and the other reserved for emergency services. The tunnels are complemented by a 1,200-meter-long link road, facilitating seamless travel through the picturesque terrain.
The Sela Tunnel is situated in the Sela–Charbela ridge, which acts as a boundary between Tawang district and West Kameng district (Dirang Circle). It is located a few kilometers west of the Sela Pass. The tunnel runs at an elevation of 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), which is lower than the Sela Pass’s elevation of 4,200 meters (13,800 feet). By being at a lower elevation, the tunnel avoids the heavy snowfall typically experienced on the Sela Pass during winters.
Previously, traversing the Sela Pass during the winter months, from late November to early April, posed significant risks due to heavy snow accumulation along the route. This treacherous condition deterred many tourists from experiencing the untouched beauty of the Winter Wonderlands surrounding the picturesque Tawang town. These snow-covered landscapes, nestled along the border of China-occupied Tibet, extend northward from the Tawang District, showcasing a pristine wilderness waiting to be explored.
However, the challenging conditions often made it inaccessible, limiting opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in the serene majesty of the region’s snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and pristine forests. With the completion of the Sela Tunnel project, this barrier has been overcome, providing safer and more reliable access to these winter wonderlands, inviting adventurers and nature enthusiasts to discover the hidden treasures of Tawang and its surrounding areas throughout the year.
The Sela Tunnel project also significantly reduces travel time by 1 hour between Bomdila and Tawang (171 Km) cutting the travel distance by at least 10 kilometers, providing a faster and more efficient route. Additionally, by bypassing the treacherous hairpin bends and the higher-altitude Sela Pass, the tunnel offers a safer and more comfortable travel experience for tourists.
In summary, the completion of the Sela Tunnel has revolutionized access to Tawang’s winter wonderlands, previously hindered by the risky Sela Pass. Now, tourists can safely explore the pristine beauty of this region year-round, boosting tourism and economic opportunities. The tunnel’s inauguration marks a new era of discovery and adventure in Tawang’s enchanting landscapes.
