Atal Tunnel to be showcased in R-Day tableau

Himachal Pradesh is set to showcase the recently inaugurated Atal Tunnel as part of its tableau at the Republic Day parade. The tunnel, built at a cost of about Rs 3,300 crore, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October this year and is strategically very important for the country.

Shimla: The tableau of Himachal Pradesh for the next Republic Day on January 26, 2021, will showcase Atal Tunnel, the longest highway tunnel in the world, Triloknath Temple and culture of Lahaul and Spiti among other things.

The Atal tunnel, built at a cost of about Rs 3,300 crore, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October this year and is strategically very important for the country.

The Language, Art and Culture Department of the state government had sent three different models to the Defence Ministry, which suggested it to have Atal tunnel, Triloknath Temple and culture of Lahaul and Spiti in the state tableau so that the world could get to know about the country's inheritance and legacy.

BJP MLA from Lahaul and Spiti has said that it's a matter of pride that along with Atal tunnel, the culture of the region would also be displayed on the occasion.

Showcasing the Atal tunnel would help in attracting more and more tourists to the state which would ensure jobs for the locals.

The decision to construct a strategic tunnel, which connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley throughout the year, below the Rohtang Pass was taken on June 3, 2000, when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister.

During the Republic Day parade of 2020, the famous Kullu Dussehra was displayed. The state has till date displayed five tableaus showcasing Kinnor, Chamba and life and culture of other parts of Himachal Pradesh.