Srinagar, July 25 (UNI) On the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit Kargil on Friday and pay homage to the brave-hearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
The victory of the Indian Army over Pakistan in Kargil war in 1999 is celebrated as Vijay Diwas on July 26.
An official spokesman said in the occasion of the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas,, PM Modi will visit the Kargil War Memorial at around 9.20 am and pay homage.
The three-day celebrations to mark the “Vijay Diwas” began at Drass in Kargil district on July 24.
During his visit, PM Modi will, virtually, also carry out the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project which, once completed, will be the highest tunnel in the world.
“Shinkun La Tunnel Project consists of a 4.1 km long twin-tube tunnel which will be constructed at an altitude of around 15,800 feet on the Nimu–Padum–Darcha Road to provide all weather connectivity to Leh. Once completed, it will be the highest tunnel in the world.
“Shinkun La tunnel will not only ensure swift and efficient movement of our armed forces and equipment but also foster economic and social development in Ladakh,” the spokesman said.
In 1999, Pakistani soldiers and militants from many groups had occupied peaks from Drass to Batalik sector along the Line of Control (LoC) overlooking the strategic Srinagar-Leh highway. The Indian Army along with the Indian Air Force later launched a massive operation and in the 74 days of battle managed to win back its territory. Since then, the Army has been observing July 26 as Vijay Diwas and the main function is held at Drass.