Kargil, December 07, 2025 — Ladakh witnessed a major boost to its border connectivity today as six strategic infrastructure projects executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Vijayak were inaugurated, coinciding with the nationwide dedication of 125 BRO assets by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh. The national ceremony was conducted virtually from Leh.
At the local level, the newly constructed Harka Bahadur Bridge on the historic Silk Route at Hardass served as the central venue. The bridge was formally inaugurated by the Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohammad Jaffar Akhoon, in the presence of MP Ladakh Haji Hanifa Jan, Chief Engineer Project Vijayak Brigadier Rahul Oberoi, senior Army and GREF officials, district officers, councillors, and villagers.
The six newly inaugurated assets—including major bridges and upgraded road stretches—are expected to significantly enhance defence mobility while transforming connectivity for civilians across remote border belts of Ladakh. Officials noted that the new infrastructure will strengthen accessibility, support socio-economic growth, and play a vital role in easing travel across challenging terrains.
Speaking at the ceremony, CEC Dr. Akhoon praised BRO and Project Vijayak for their professionalism, dedication, and vital contribution to Ladakh’s development. He expressed deep appreciation for Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for prioritising national infrastructure and ensuring Ladakh remains a key focus area. Highlighting BRO’s tireless winter operations at Zojila Pass, he said their commitment keeps Ladakh connected even in the harshest conditions.
Dr. Akhoon also congratulated Councillor Altaf for securing crucial developmental projects for his constituency and lauded the contractor team for executing the Hardass bridge with exceptional standards. He reaffirmed Ladakh’s unwavering spirit of national service and expressed optimism that airline services to Kargil—now in the final stages of approval—would soon add another vital link to the region.
MP Haji Hanifa Jan hailed the transformation of border infrastructure under Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s leadership, describing it as historic and game-changing for both national security and local development. He said the new projects would not only enhance the operational readiness of the Armed Forces but also boost border tourism and open new economic opportunities for villagers.
The day’s inauguration marks another milestone for Ladakh, strengthening its strategic network and offering long-awaited relief and mobility to the people living across its remote and rugged border areas.
