The Indian government is late in approving a proposed $1.6-billion, 14-kilometer-long twin-tunnel project in Kashmir. The project was originally due for a decision on Oct. 17, though expectations at the time were that the Union Government would clear the project.

The tunnels, when completed, will become the highest mountain passes in India. It is a vital road-link project that will connect the strategically important region of Kargil and Leh to the rest of India through the proposed all-weather tunnel in Kashmir.