Kargil: In a major boost to Kargil’s development, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple infrastructure projects worth ₹180.24 crore during his first official visit to the district.
The event, hosted by the District Administration at the Auditorium Hall, marked a significant step towards fulfilling the developmental aspirations of the people of Kargil.
Projects inaugurated and launched included the construction of a 300-metre double-lane motorable bridge over the Suru River, a 25-metre bridge and link road from Shakardo to Zungthang, a steel plate girder bridge at Brakfos Ayet Hagnis, and a steel motorable bridge over River Lungnak at Testa Lungnak.
Other key projects included the upgradation of link roads connecting NH-301 to Khows Namsuru, widening of the Namsuru-Tangole Road, a new irrigation canal from Paldar Takpo to Tashi Stongday, and the installation of 50 solar submersible pumps for irrigation.
Addressing the gathering, LG Gupta said that the projects reflect the Government of India’s and UT Administration’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of Kargil.
He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for empowering remote regions like Ladakh and highlighted the government’s recent move to announce five new districts as proof of its resolve to address the issues of people living in far-flung areas.
The LG informed that he held meetings with several delegations during his visit to Kargil and Drass and received encouraging feedback on the progress made under the UT Administration and Hill Council’s leadership. He emphasized that the region’s development should be collaborative, inclusive, and innovative, adding that improving both road and air connectivity will remain his top priority.
He described the upcoming Zoji La Tunnel as a “gamechanger” for the region and said that efforts were being made in coordination with the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to start civilian flight operations from Kargil airport.
LG Gupta underlined that tourism will also be a key focus area, noting that better connectivity will offer a smoother travel experience for visitors and generate livelihood opportunities for Ladakhi youth. He assured the people of Kargil that their voices would be heard and their needs addressed through coordinated governance and long-term planning.
Welcoming the LG, Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, expressed hope that the new leadership would bring balanced development to both districts of Ladakh. He urged the LG to consider demands such as granting district status to Sankoo and Shakar-Chiktan, extending Kargil airport for civilian use, establishing an Agriculture University, and upgrading the District Hospital to a 200-bed facility.
Member of Parliament from Ladakh, Mohmad Haneefa Jan, echoed these sentiments, stating that the people of Kargil feel optimistic about the inclusive development of Ladakh under LG Gupta’s leadership. He too highlighted the pressing need for civil aviation infrastructure in the region.
Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, IAS, welcomed the dignitaries and briefed the LG about recent accolades won by the Municipal Committee Kargil. SSP Kargil, Shree Raam R, IPS, delivered the vote of thanks.
The event saw participation from LAHDC Kargil Executive Councillors and Councillors, Chairman of Haj Committee Ladakh Mohd Ali Majaz, heads of religious and social organizations, civil society members, departmental heads, and cultural troupes representing various ethnic communities of Kargil.
