Jammu, March 2025: Despite facing numerous challenges, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) is making relentless efforts to develop strategically important roads, as evidenced by the construction of over 1,250 kilometers of road along the Indo-China border in the Union Territory of Ladakh. Work is also progressing on several other crucial stretches.
This information was revealed in the report of the Standing Committee on Defence tabled in both Houses of Parliament today.
BRO’s Key Projects and Progress According to the report, BRO is primarily engaged in developing strategically significant roads along India’s borders. Notable projects include:
- Indo-China Border Roads (Phase-I & II)
- Shinkun La Tunnel (4.1 km)
- Nyoma-Mudh airfield in Ladakh
Adequate budgetary support has been allocated in Budget Estimates (BE) 2025-26 for ongoing projects in Ladakh and other regions.
Indo-China Border Roads Status The Committee observed that, under the revised five-year Long-Term Roll-on Works Plan (LTRoWP), the Army has identified 476 roads totaling 22,156 km for construction and improvement. Specifically:
- Uttarakhand: 36 roads, 1,895.01 km
- Ladakh: 67 roads, 3,604.32 km
In Ladakh, under Phase-I, 12 roads covering 1,099.02 km were approved. Of these, 11 have been completed, with work continuing on the last one. Under Phase-II, four roads covering 173.38 km were sanctioned, with one completed and three under construction.
Challenges Faced by BRO The Ministry of Defence acknowledged several challenges encountered by BRO, including:
- Hard rock stretches
- Limited working season
- Scarcity of construction materials
- Resource diversions due to natural disasters
- Time-consuming land acquisition and environmental clearances
- Shortage of local labor and limited participation from reputed contractors due to remoteness
Boost to Tourism and Local Economy Beyond their strategic importance, these roads have significantly boosted tourism and local economies. The Director General of BRO highlighted the impact of the improved road to Pangong Lake, stating:
“The current condition of the road is good, and adequate funds have been allocated for rehabilitation. Previously, it took two days to visit Pangong Lake and return, but now the journey can be completed within a day due to improved road conditions.”
He emphasized that this road is not just a strategic asset but also vital for the local economy, affirming that its maintenance will remain a priority.
Shinkun-La Tunnel: A Game Changer for Ladakh The Shinkun-La Tunnel, aimed at providing all-weather connectivity to Leh, is progressing as per schedule. The BRO reported:
- Project Design and Construction (PDC) to be completed by August 2028.
- Four-year timeline fixed in the contract, with work progressing per set milestones.
- South portal located in Himachal Pradesh, North portal in Zanskar’s Padam area.
- Major construction to begin in May 2025, as heavy snow currently covers the site.
Strategic Significance of Shinkun-La Tunnel The tunnel, positioned at 15,800 feet, will be the highest in the world and serve critical defense and strategic needs. Benefits include:
- Year-round connectivity to Ladakh, ensuring access even in heavy snowfall.
- Shortening the Manali-Leh route by 60 km.
- Facilitating transportation of heavy machinery to Kargil and Siachen.
- Enhancing security and boosting commerce and tourism in the Zanskar Valley.
The Standing Committee affirmed the significance of these developments, underlining the BRO’s commitment to national security and regional economic growth.
