Proposal to Name Zojila Tunnel Portals After Historical Figures

Sanjay Raut, a Member of Parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT), has proposed that the portals of the Zojila Tunnel be named after two significant figures in Indian history. The Zojila Tunnel, which connects the Kashmir Valley to Ladakh, is currently under construction and aims to enhance connectivity in the region. Raut suggests naming one portal after Brigadier Mohammed Usman, a celebrated hero from the 1947-48 Indo-Pak War, and the other after Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida, an 8th-century ruler of Kashmir.

The ambitious Zojila Tunnel project has been marked by recent progress, with a breakthrough achieved on 9 June 2026. This involves a blast that cleared the final 2.5 metres of the 13-kilometre tunnel, which stretches through the challenging Himalayan terrain. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, was present for the breakthrough, which was completed at an altitude of 11,578 feet, located 24 kilometres from Sonamarg and 103 kilometres from Srinagar. Once finished, the tunnel is expected to open to the public by February 2028.

In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Raut emphasised the importance of the Zojila Tunnel as a critical infrastructure project in independent India. He stated that it will provide all-weather connectivity that will enhance national security, economic opportunities, promotion of tourism, and the integration of strategically important regions. Raut elaborated on his proposition to name the portals, noting that Brigadier Mohammed Usman embodies the courage of those who defended the nation in difficult times, while Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida represents Kashmir's rich historical legacy.

Raut detailed that the Sonamarg portal could be named in honour of Brigadier Usman, and the Drass portal after Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida. Both names are intended to serve as a tribute to the contributions these figures made to India's heritage.

Brigadier Usman, popularly referred to as the Lion of Naushera, significantly contributed to defending the regions of Naushera and Jhangar during the Indo-Pak conflict. He is remembered for choosing to remain with India during the Partition and for his ultimate sacrifice on 3 July 1948. He was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra posthumously, recognising his bravery in combat.

On the other hand, Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida, a ruler of the Karkota dynasty, is known for his role in expanding Kashmir's influence in ancient times, reaching areas such as Central Asia and Tibet. He was instrumental in building several cultural landmarks, including the Martand Sun Temple, contributing to Kashmir's historical significance.

Raut concludes that naming the Zojila Tunnel portals after these two historical figures would reflect India's commitment to recognising its multifaceted heritage and promote national unity and integration. A formal decision on the naming proposal has yet to be announced, pending further discussions and reviews by the relevant authorities.