Prime minister inaugurates Atal Tunnel

News: Prime Minister has inaugurated the Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh Rohtang.

Facts:

  • Atal Tunnel (earlier known as Rohtang Tunnel): It is a 9.02 km long tunnel that connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley throughout the year.
  • Significance: The tunnel is the world’s longest highway tunnel above the altitude of 10,000 feet (3000 metres).
  • Constructed by: The tunnel has been constructed by the Border Roads Organisation(BRO).

Additional Facts:

  • BRO: It was formed in 1960 to secure India’s borders and develop infrastructure in remote areas of the north and north-east states of the country.It has been under the control of the Ministry of Defence since 2015.