SAIL-Bhilai supplies over 7,300 tonnes steel for Sela tunnel project

The Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), a key unit of the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) based in Chhattisgarh, has contributed significantly to the strategic Sela Tunnel Project in Arunachal Pradesh by supplying over 7,300 tonnes of steel. This initiative aims to enhance all-weather connectivity to the Tawang region of the state, ensuring faster and more efficient transportation.

A statement issued by SAIL-Bhilai highlighted the specifics of the steel supplied for the project, including 6,545 tonnes of TMT bars, 512 tonnes of TMT bars in coils, 88 tonnes of wire rods, 46 tonnes of angles and channels, 94 tonnes of plates, and 22 tonnes of joists, all meeting the specified grades required for construction.

In total, SAIL has contributed 24,216 tonnes of steel for the Sela Tunnel Project. Additionally, Durgapur Steel Plant (DSP) and IISCO Steel Plant at Burnpur, two other units of SAIL specializing in TMT bars and rods, have provided 8,937 tonnes and 3,118 tonnes of TMT bars, respectively. DSP has also contributed 3,662 tonnes of joists for the project.

Even units primarily focused on flat products, such as Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) and Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), have played a role in the project. BSL supplied 55 tonnes of GC Sheets, 145 tonnes of HR Sheets, and 146 tonnes of HSM plates, while RSP provided 51 tonnes of HSM plates and 522 tonnes of plates from its Plate Mill.

The Sela Tunnel Project, situated at an altitude of 13,700 feet in the West Kameng district, comprises two tunnels and a link road. Executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the tunnel is expected to reduce travel time to Tawang by at least an hour, particularly significant as Sela Pass often remains closed during winter months. Moreover, the project will facilitate easier movement of military personnel and equipment throughout the year, aligning with strategic objectives along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

BS