10 June,2026 11:33 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Sanjay Raut. File Pic
Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the Centre to name the two portals of the under-construction Zojila Tunnel after Brigadier Mohammed Usman, a hero of the 1947-48 Indo-Pak war, and Lalitaditya Muktapida, the renowned 8th-century ruler of Kashmir.
The proposal comes a day after the strategic tunnel project achieved a major engineering milestone with the successful breakthrough of the main tunnel. The Zojila Tunnel, being built at a cost of approximately Rs 6,800 crore, is expected to provide all-weather road connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh once completed.
In his letter to the Prime Minister, Raut suggested that the Sonamarg-side portal in Kashmir be named after Brigadier Mohammed Usman, while the Drass-side portal in Ladakh be named after Lalitaditya Muktapida.
According to the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, the move would honour two prominent figures associated with India's military and historical legacy while reflecting the diverse heritage of the region.
Raut shared the contents of his letter on social media platform X, stating that such a gesture would recognise both the sacrifices made in defence of the nation and the historical contributions that shaped Kashmir's identity over centuries.
The demand comes after the Zojila Tunnel project reached a key stage on Tuesday when workers completed the final breakthrough blast, cutting through the last 2.5 metres of rock inside the 13-kilometre tunnel.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the event and carried out the ceremonial breakthrough blasting. The tunnel is being constructed at an altitude of 11,578 feet above sea level and is located around 24 kilometres from Sonamarg and 103 kilometres from Srinagar.
Once operational, the tunnel is expected to significantly reduce travel disruptions caused by heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions in the region. Officials have indicated that the project is likely to be opened to the public in February 2028.
In his letter, Raut highlighted the contributions of Brigadier Mohammed Usman, popularly known as the "Lion of Naushera", for his role during the 1947-48 Indo-Pak war.
Usman played a crucial role in defending Naushera and Jhangar in Jammu and Kashmir during the conflict. Raut noted that despite being given the option to join Pakistan after Partition, the military officer chose to remain with India and later sacrificed his life in combat on July 3, 1948.
Brigadier Usman was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra and remains one of the highest-ranking Indian military officers to have been killed in action.
Describing him as a symbol of patriotism and national unity, Raut said his contribution deserves recognition through a prominent national infrastructure project.
Raut also proposed naming the Ladakh-side portal after Lalitaditya Muktapida, one of the most influential rulers of the Karkota dynasty.
Lalitaditya is remembered for expanding Kashmir's influence beyond its borders and for promoting architecture, culture and trade during his reign. He is widely credited with constructing the historic Martand Sun Temple and strengthening Kashmir's position as an important political and cultural centre.
According to Raut, naming one of the tunnel portals after the ancient ruler would acknowledge Kashmir's rich historical legacy and its contribution to Indian civilisation.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader argued that dedicating the tunnel portals to Brigadier Usman and Lalitaditya Muktapida would send a strong message of national integration and respect for India's diverse heritage.
He said the proposal combines recognition of military sacrifice with acknowledgement of historical achievements, making it an appropriate tribute for one of the country's most significant infrastructure projects.
The Centre has not yet responded publicly to Raut's proposal. However, the suggestion has added a new dimension to discussions surrounding the landmark Zojila Tunnel, which is expected to play a crucial role in improving connectivity and strengthening strategic access to Ladakh.
