Cut off due to heavy snow, Spiti residents demand tunnel beneath Kunzum Pass

Residents of the Spiti region are once again demanding the construction of a tunnel beneath the Kunzum Pass (14,931 ft) located on the Sumdo-Kaza-Gramphu highway in Lahaul and Spiti district. The tunnel, they argue, will provide year-round access to the Spiti valley from Lahaul and Manali, bypassing the severe winter disruptions caused by heavy snowfall that often cuts off the region for several months.

The Kunzum Pass is impassable during the winter months, leaving the Spiti valley isolated from Manali and Lahaul. Every year, the valley is cut off for an extended period, disrupting the daily lives of the local population and severely affecting tourism and trade.

Padma Dorje, a former Zila Parishad member from Kaza, says that the demand for a tunnel under the Kunzum Pass has been a long-standing issue for residents. “For years, we have advocated for this project. A tunnel beneath the pass will ensure easy access to the Spiti valley, even in the harshest winter months. This is crucial for the economic development of the region and the welfare of local residents,” he adds.

The idea of constructing the tunnel has gained traction in recent years. A BJP delegation, led by former Lahaul and Spiti MLA Ravi Thakur, had recently met Union Minister for Highways and Road Transport Nitin Gadkari to request him for the construction of the tunnel. The delegation had urged Gadkari to prioritise the project, pointing out the immense benefits it would bring in terms of connectivity, tourism and economic development.

Ravi Thakur, speaking on behalf of the delegation, had said, “This project is vital for the development of the entire Lahaul and Spiti region. Not only will it connect Spiti with Lahaul to Manali year-round, but will also make the region more accessible for tourists, thus boosting the local economy.”

The issue has become even more urgent in the light of the challenges faced by residents and businesses in the region due to the seasonal closure of the Kunzum Pass. Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana said that she would take up the issue with the Central Government for the welfare of Spiti residents.

Local leaders and residents are hopeful that the Union Ministry will give the project the attention it deserves and move forward with the construction of the tunnel, which promises to be a game-changer for the Spiti region.

Himachal Tribune