Among the key projects is the construction of road patches on an alternative route to Leh, which aims to ensure year-round connectivity. The first two traditional routes to Leh?via Srinagar-ZojiLa-Kargil and Manali-Rohtang?currently lack all-weather access. The new route, which is in the final stages of completion, will provide a third option, significantly improving access to the region.
The BRO is also advancing work on the Nimu-Padam-Darcha road, with only a 4-kilometre section left to complete. Additionally, construction is set to begin on the 4.1-kilometre Shinku La tunnel, which, at 15,800 feet, will be the world's highest tunnel. This tunnel will further reduce the distance between Manali and Leh by 60 kilometers.
In parallel, the BRO is prioritising the establishment of connectivity to roads running parallel to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. One such project is the Leh-Demchok road, where much of the construction has already been completed, with plans to eventually upgrade these roads to double lanes.
Since 2020, the pace of infrastructure development in border areas has accelerated, reflecting the strategic importance of these regions. The increased focus on road, bridge, tunnel, and other infrastructure projects is intended to enhance troop mobility and readiness in case of any operational situation along the LAC.
The BRO's budget has also seen a substantial increase, with a 30% hike this fiscal year to Rs 65 billion, underscoring the government's commitment to these projects.
Among the projects under the India-China Border Roads (ICBR) programme are four critical roads in Arunachal Pradesh, totalling 330.95 kilometers. These roads are part of the first two phases of the ICBR, which were initially conceptualised in the late 1990s and cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security in 1999. The program includes the construction of 73 strategic roads along the India-China border, spanning over 4,600 kilometers.
Looking ahead, the BRO plans to submit detailed project reports for 14 more roads under ICBR Phase III, focusing on critical link roads to the LAC in eastern Ladakh and key areas in Arunachal Pradesh.
Additionally, work is progressing on the nearly 1,800-kilometer frontier highway in Arunachal Pradesh, which will connect key locations near the Myanmar border. Central funds of over Rs 60 billion have been allocated for portions of this highway.
Other priority projects include the Sungal tunnel on the Akhnoor-Poonch National Highway in Jammu and Kashmir, and the final connectivity to the Lipulekh Pass on the Mansarovar Yatra road, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. These projects aim to enhance connectivity and reduce travel time in strategically important areas. (The Indian Express)
