PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU VISITS ATAL TUNNEL DURING HIMACHAL PRADESH TOUR

Face2News/Shimla

On the second day of her three-day visit to Himachal Pradesh, President Droupadi Murmu visited the 9.02-km-long Atal Tunnel, located at an altitude of more than 10,000 feet above sea level. Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavindr Gupta and Lady Governor Bindu Gupta accompanied the President during the visit.

President Murmu took keen interest in the engineering features and construction of the Atal Tunnel and received information from officials about its technical aspects. She also admired the scenic natural beauty of the surrounding Himalayan region.

Governor Kavindr Gupta described the Atal Tunnel as an example of world-class engineering excellence and said it had brought Lahaul-Spiti closer to the rest of the country. He said the tunnel was a testament to India’s vision, technological capabilities and unwavering commitment to connecting people living in remote and difficult geographical areas with the rest of the country.

The Governor said the Atal Tunnel symbolised the strength of modern infrastructure and strategic development and was an inspiring example of India’s ability to execute major infrastructure projects in challenging geographical conditions. Such projects, he added, not only improve connectivity but also create opportunities for development and growth for people living in remote areas.

At the North Portal of the tunnel, local residents accorded a traditional welcome to the President. Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani presented a memento to President Murmu on the occasion.

During the visit, MP Kangana Ranaut, Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana, Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana, district administration officials and Army officers were also present to welcome the President.
Later, President Droupadi Murmu and Governor Kavindr Gupta visited the famous Hidimba Temple at Dhungri in Manali and offered prayers. They prayed for peace, happiness, prosperity and the well-being of the people of the country.

The Governor also visited the Forest Rest House in Manali, where he planted a rare Ginkgo biloba sapling, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and protection of the Himalayan ecosystem.
Through the plantation drive, the Governor stressed the need to preserve the region’s rich natural heritage and promote sustainable development in the fragile mountain environment.