In a significant boost to infrastructure and connectivity in high-altitude border areas, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated 50 strategic projects executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on May 7 from New Delhi.

The virtual ceremony was attended by the Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson, along with Deputy Chairman Tsering Angchuk, Executive Councillors Tashi Namgyal Yakzee and Ghulam Mehdi, and Nominated Councillor Ven. Konchok Tsepel. Councillor Dr. Morup Dorjey from Lamayuru joined the inauguration from the project site at Dhomkhar.

The event commenced with a spirited chant of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” marking the successful launch of Operation Sindoor. Of the 50 projects inaugurated, 16 are located in the Union Territory of Ladakh and have been implemented under Project Himank and Project Vijayak, with a combined worth of approximately ₹947.43 crore. These projects have been dedicated to the people of Ladakh as part of India’s broader vision for secure borders and inclusive development.

Among the key projects inaugurated in Ladakh are eight critical roads under Project Himank, Tangtse–Lukung Road; Karu–Tangtse Road; Chusul–Dungti–Fukhe–Demchok Road; Puga–Pologongka Road; Mahe–Debring Road; Leh–Loma Road; Lukung–Phobrang Road and Tangtse–Horong–Chusul Road.
These roads are essential not only for defence logistics but also for improving civilian connectivity in remote and border villages.
Six bridges were also dedicated to the region, Kanglajal Bridge-I; Kanglajal Bridge-II; Fukche Talza Bridge; Fukche Lungpa Bridge (under Project Himank); Hanu Yokma Bridge and Domkhar Bridge (under Project Vijayak).

Additionally, two other key projects were completed: a specialised ammunition cavern at Hanle and road surfacing using ILCB technology at Chang La and Wari La, further enhancing the region’s infrastructure resilience in harsh terrains.

CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson congratulated the people of Ladakh on the successful completion of these vital projects. He stated that this milestone marks significant progress in Ladakh’s development journey as a Union Territory. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for their unwavering support. He emphasized that these efforts align with the Prime Minister’s vision for a progressive and empowered Ladakh.

The CEC further noted that several more infrastructure projects are in the pipeline and will be completed in the coming days for the continued benefit of the region.

On the occasion of the 66th Raising Day of the BRO, celebrated on May 7, 2025, the CEC extended his warm congratulations to the organisation and lauded its indispensable role in the development of border infrastructure across Ladakh and the nation.

A highlight of the event was the virtual inauguration of BRO’s Café Himank, located along the Tangtse–Lukung Road. Positioned in a scenic area, the café serves as a rest and refreshment stop for defence personnel and travellers, symbolising the integration of infrastructure development with community engagement and tourism potential in border areas.

Speaking at the event, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh praised the BRO’s dedication in executing complex engineering projects under extreme weather and challenging geographical conditions. He remarked that such infrastructure goes beyond connectivity—it empowers people, boosts local economies, and strengthens national security. He stated that these projects are a testament to the government's steadfast commitment to the welfare and development of border regions like Ladakh.

Director General Border Roads, Lt. Gen. Raghu Srinivasan, provided insights into the strategic importance and technical aspects of the inaugurated projects, highlighting how BRO’s engineering excellence is transforming some of India’s most remote frontiers.

Adding to Ladakh’s pride, Project Himank was declared the Best Project among all 18 BRO projects across the country and was honoured by the Defence Minister on BRO Day. Nicknamed “The Mountain Tamers,” Project Himank has consistently delivered critical infrastructure in Eastern Ladakh, including access routes to Daulat Beg Oldi, Galwan, Demchok, Hanle, and the Karakoram Pass. Earlier this year, it became the first BRO project to receive the Chief of Army Staff Unit Appreciation, a recognition of its unmatched contribution to strategic connectivity and regional development.

The people of Ladakh have warmly welcomed the inauguration of these projects, acknowledging the transformative role of the BRO in enhancing mobility, creating opportunities, and improving everyday life in this strategically vital region.