Shimla, September 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Manali, Himachal Pradesh on October 3 for the inauguration of Atal Tunnel, said Jai Ram Thakur, the state's Chief Minister said on Monday.

"Prime Minister is likely to visit Manali on October 3 for the inauguration of Atal Tunnel. He will also visit Lahaul after that, according to the proposed plan. It has not been finalised yet," said Thakur while speaking to the reporters earlier today. Also Read | Farm Bills Passed in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha: Former Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Hails Centre's Agriculture Bills.

The construction of the Atal Tunnel connecting Manali with Leh, which is the world's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet, has been completed in a span of 10 years whereas the original estimated time was less than six years. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Lays Foundation Stone of Highway Projects Worth Over Rs 14,000 Crore in Bihar.

Earlier, KP Purushothaman, Chief Engineer said the tunnel will reduce the distance between Manali and Leh by 46 kilometres and four hours can be saved.

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