Leh: In a major push to strengthen infrastructure and connectivity in high altitude border areas, the Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, Wednesday virtually inaugurated 50 strategic projects executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) from New Delhi.
The virtual inauguration event was also joined by Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson along with Dy. Chairman Tsering Angchuk, Executive Councillor Tashi Namgyal Yakzee, Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi, Nominated Councillor Ven. Konchok Tsepel from Leh.
Councillor Lamayuru Dr Morup Dorjey joined the virtual inauguration from the project site Dhomkhar. The inauguration ceremony commenced with the spirited chant of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” marking the successful launch of Operation Sindoor. Of the 50 projects, 16 significant ones are located in the Union Territory of Ladakh and have been implemented under Project Himank and Project Vijayak.
These projects, worth approximately ₹947.43 crore, are now dedicated to the people of Ladakh as part of India’s larger vision of secure borders and inclusive development.
The projects inaugurated in Ladakh include eight important roads under Project Himank—Tangtse–Lukung Road, Karu–Tangtse Road, Chusul–Dungti–Fukhe–Demchok Road, Puga–Pologongka Road, Mahe–Debring Road, Leh–Loma Road, Lukung–Phobrang Road, and Tangtse–Horong–Chusul Road.
These roads are crucial for defence logistics and will also greatly benefit local civilian movement in remote and border villages. Six bridges were also dedicated to the region: Kanglajal Bridge-I, Kanglajal Bridge-II, Fukche Talza Bridge, Fukche Lungpa Bridge under Project Himank, and Hanu Yokma Bridge and Domkhar Bridge under Project Vijayak.
Additionally, two other key works have been completed, a specialised ammunition cavern at Hanle and road surfacing using ILCB technology at Chang La and Wari La, further enhancing infrastructure resilience in tough terrains.
Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson congratulated the people of Ladakh on the inauguration of these vital infrastructure projects. He stated that the completion and dedication of these works mark a significant milestone in the development journey of Ladakh as a Union Territory.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for their continued support.
He stated that these projects are in line with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a progressive Ladakh.
CEC added that these are among the many projects being implemented across the region, and several more will be completed and inaugurated in the coming days for the benefit of the people.
On the occasion of the 66th Raising Day of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) being celebrated today, May 7, 2025, CEC also extended his warm congratulations to BRO and lauded its significant contribution to the development of border infrastructure in Ladakh and across the nation.
Another highlight of the event was the virtual inauguration of BRO’s Café Himank, situated along the Tangtse–Lukung Road. Built near a scenic location, the facility offers rest and refreshment for both defence personnel and travellers, symbolising the fusion of infrastructure development with community engagement and tourism potential in border areas.
Speaking on the event, Raksha Mantri lauded the efforts of BRO in executing complex engineering projects under extreme weather and geographical conditions.
He remarked that such infrastructure is not just about connectivity but also about empowering people, boosting local economies, and enhancing national security. He affirmed that these projects reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of border regions like Ladakh.
He congratulated everyone and stated that the project has been dedicated to them, recognising their resilience and vital role in the nation’s border security.
The Director General Border Roads, Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, provided insights into the strategic importance and technical aspects of the projects, underlining how BRO’s engineering capabilities are enabling transformation in some of India’s most remote frontiers.
Adding to the region’s pride, Project Himank was declared the Best Project among all 18 BRO projects nationwide and was honoured by the Raksha Mantri on BRO Day.
Known as “The Mountain Tamers,” Project Himank has consistently delivered critical infrastructure in Eastern Ladakh, including access to Daulat Beg Oldi, Galwan, Demchok, Hanle, and the Karakoram Pass.
Earlier this year, it became the first BRO project to be awarded the Chief of Army Staff Unit Appreciation, marking its unmatched contribution to strategic connectivity and regional development.
The people of Ladakh have warmly welcomed the inauguration of these projects, recognizing the role of BRO in improving daily life, opening new opportunities, and ensuring uninterrupted mobility across all seasons.
