PM Modi to Launch Major Development Initiatives in Ladakh

Inauguration of Key Projects in Leh

Leh, Oct 14: On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate five significant development projects valued at Rs 3,350 crore via video conferencing, as confirmed by government officials on Wednesday.

The Prime Minister's address is set for around 12:30 p.m. through video link.

These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity, bolster energy infrastructure, preserve cultural heritage, and improve water security in the region.

Among the projects, the new passenger terminal at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which cost Rs 640 crore, will be inaugurated.

This modern terminal spans 23,800 square meters and is designed to accommodate 3.5 million passengers annually.

Utilizing geothermal energy for improved efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, the terminal exemplifies sustainable infrastructure in Ladakh's delicate ecosystem.

By integrating modern amenities with elements of Ladakh's rich cultural heritage, the terminal aims to enhance passenger experience and strengthen air travel connections with the rest of India.

Additionally, the Prime Minister will dedicate the 298-km Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

This road connects Nimmu in Leh to Darcha in Himachal Pradesh through the remote Zanskar Valley, providing an alternative route to Ladakh, complementing the existing Srinagar–Leh and Manali–Leh highways.

Traversing challenging Himalayan landscapes, including the high-altitude Shinkun La Pass, this road represents a significant engineering feat. Its strategic relevance lies in enhancing operational mobility and logistical support for the Armed Forces.

Moreover, it will improve access to healthcare, education, markets, and essential services for Zanskar residents.

To further energy security and tap into Ladakh's renewable energy potential, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project along with the 66 kV Double-Circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line.

These projects will enhance power evacuation infrastructure and improve the reliability of the electricity network in Ladakh, marking a crucial step towards utilizing the region's hydropower resources.

Recognizing the need to protect Ladakh's ancient archaeological heritage, PM Modi will also inaugurate India's first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh.

Ladakh is home to numerous prehistoric rock art sites featuring carvings that provide valuable insights into thousands of years of human history.

The conservation park will serve as a dedicated area for safeguarding these vulnerable archaeological sites, promoting public awareness, and encouraging responsible heritage tourism.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister will launch 40 water bodies developed across 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar, aimed at addressing the unique geographical and climatic challenges of Ladakh through water conservation, aligning with the goals of Mission Amrit Sarovar.

Agriculture in Ladakh faces seasonal discrepancies between water availability and demand, often leading to water shortages during critical sowing periods.

Project Him Sarovar aims to tackle this issue by conserving water during plentiful times and ensuring its availability when needed, thereby supporting irrigation and enhancing long-term water security in the region.

PM Modi has consistently shown a keen interest in the development and empowerment of the remote Ladakh region, often reminiscing about his early political visits to Kargil and other areas.

He fondly recalls how friends would request him to bring back the much-loved turnip vegetable from Ladakh during his travels.