Leh, April 21: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena called on Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi on Monday to press for early approval and execution of key infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening road connectivity in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, Saxena highlighted several critical projects requiring intervention from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, stressing their importance for improving connectivity, safety, and economic growth in the region.
A major focus of the discussion was the progress of the Zoji-La Tunnel. Gadkari informed that the final breakthrough of the tunnel is expected by the end of May. Once completed, the tunnel is set to provide all-weather connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country, a long-standing demand for the region.
The Lieutenant Governor also raised concerns over the need for avalanche protection measures along the Zoji-La Top stretch. He pointed out that even after the tunnel becomes operational, the route will continue to be used, making safety infrastructure crucial, especially in light of a recent avalanche incident that claimed seven lives.
Saxena further flagged pending projects under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), with road and bridge works worth Rs 1,465.88 crore awaiting approval. He underscored that timely sanction of these projects is essential for enhancing connectivity in remote and strategically important areas.
The upgradation of the NH-03 stretch from Leh to Sindhu Ghat also figured in the discussions. While over five kilometres of the road has already been converted into a four-lane stretch, the remaining portion continues to face congestion due to its double-lane configuration. Saxena sought early approval to complete the upgradation.
He also pushed for the construction of the Leh Bypass, noting that the DPR for the 48.10-km southern alignment, estimated at Rs 1,011 crore, has already been submitted, while work on the northern alignment DPR is underway. The project is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in Leh town and improve urban mobility.
Assuring full support, Gadkari directed officials to prioritise infrastructure projects in Ladakh and expedite all necessary approvals. He said pending CRIF projects would be sanctioned by May and emphasised time-bound execution.
Saxena said that the timely completion of these projects would transform connectivity in Ladakh, boost tourism, and create employment opportunities, while also strengthening the region’s strategic and economic significance.
