Context:
The Manali-Leh highway was blocked due to fresh snowfall near the Atal Tunnel in Lahaul and Spiti districts recently.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Overview of Atal Tunnel
World Record
- Formerly known as Rohtang Tunnel.
- Recognized as the world’s longest high-altitude tunnel.
Location and Elevation
- Situated in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas.
- Located in Himachal Pradesh at an elevation of approximately 3,100 meters (10,171 feet) above sea level.
Route and Connectivity
- Passes through the Rohtang pass.
- Spans a length of 9.02 km.
- Connects Manali to Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
- Ensures year-round connectivity; previously, the region was cut off for about six months annually due to heavy snowfall.
Portal Details
- South Portal (SP) located 25 km from Manali at an altitude of 3,060 metres.
- North Portal (NP) situated near village Teling, Sissu, in Lahaul Valley at an altitude of 3,071 metres.
Tunnel Specifications
- Design: Horseshoe-shaped, single tube, double lane.
- Roadway width: 8 meters.
- Overhead clearance: 5.525 meters.
Safety Features
- Semi-transverse ventilation system.
- Emergency exits every 500 meters.
- Evacuation lighting, broadcasting systems, and fire hydrants are installed for enhanced safety.
-Source: Hindustan Times
