Daijiworld Media Network - Ladakh
Ladakh, Dec 8: Strengthening India’s border connectivity, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday inaugurated 125 infrastructure projects built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) across strategic frontiers of the country.
Spanning seven states — Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram — and two Union Territories, Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, these projects include 28 roads, 93 bridges and four other works, executed at an estimated cost of Rs 5,000 crore.
The virtually-linked inauguration ceremony was held at the Shyok Tunnel site on the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie road — a crucial lifeline to the forward areas near the Line of Actual Control. The 920-metre cut-and-cover tunnel is designed to ensure all-weather mobility in one of the world’s toughest terrains, prone to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
Addressing the gathering, Singh said enhanced road and tunnel connectivity is vital not only for military preparedness but also for economic growth and tourism in remote border districts.
“There are numerous benefits of strong border infrastructure — better mobility for our forces, logistics support, local employment, and stronger faith in development and governance,” he said.
He stressed that the government is continuously boosting surveillance systems, smart fencing and command infrastructure along the borders.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, launched after the terror attack in Pahalgam, Singh asserted that swift military response was possible due to reliable connectivity.
“Our forces showed courage and patience. Strong logistics and connectivity ensured the success of the operation,” he remarked.
The Defence Minister also highlighted India’s 8.2% GDP growth in Q2 of FY 2025–26, crediting improved communication and infrastructure as major contributors.
BRO’s Director General Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan said the organisation has emerged as the first choice for ministries executing projects in sensitive and difficult terrains. BRO recorded its highest-ever expenditure of Rs 16,690 crore in FY 2024–25, with a target of Rs 18,700 crore for 2025–26.
The event witnessed the presence of senior military commanders, governors, chief ministers, and union ministers. Singh also unveiled the Galwan War Memorial, paying rich tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.
In just the last two years, 356 BRO projects have been dedicated to the nation. The Union Budget 2025–26 has allocated Rs 7,146 crore to BRO, underlining its growing role in national security and strategic development.