A seminar on the construction of prefabricated bridges using the latest technology in Ladakh was e-inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor, R K Mathur on December 12.
 
The seminar was conducted by the Public Works Department, Ladakh in collaboration with Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. Kolkata.
 
R K Mathur emphasised the need to use the best possible technology and management techniques to extend the working season for developmental activities in Ladakh and to reduce the construction period to a minimum.
 
He informed that the funds allocated to Ladakh for bridge construction are ₹700 crore which he said needs to be utilized with extra effort to ensure the construction of world-class bridges. He added that bridges are an important aspect of infrastructure development in Ladakh for both civil and military purposes. 
 
R K Mathur highlighted the need for the construction of footbridges, single lane, and double lane bridges considering the nature and weather changes like a strong wind, flash floods, sharp increase in water level, and changing the course of rivers during summers.  
 
He suggested including local MSME units in the construction of bridges and asserted that it will not only boost the local economy but would be of immense help in upgrading their capacity and technology that would help both the civilian population and army in launching bridges during contingencies. He expected the participants to deliberate on management techniques and maintenance aspects of bridge construction and ensure its application in service delivery by PWD. 
 
Mathur thanked GRSE for their support and conduct of training sessions for the engineers. He said that the combined knowledge and technological expertise of GRSE, BRO, Army, and CPWD put together would help Ladakh build a strong network of quality bridges and easy accessibility for the people of Ladakh. 
 
Commissioner Secretary, A K Sahu; General Manager, GRSE, Subrato Ghosh; SE PWD Leh, Pradeep Kumar Sharma, officials of BRO, engineers of CPWD and PWD were present on the occasion.