Rajnath Singh Unveils 125 Key Infrastructure Projects to Fortify India's Borders
Strengthening Border Infrastructure
Leh: On Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the inauguration of 125 crucial infrastructure projects managed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), reaffirming the government's dedication to enhancing border facilities under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Rajnath Singh highlighted the importance of these connectivity initiatives, describing them as essential for security, economic growth, and effective disaster management. He stated, “Robust infrastructure in border regions offers numerous advantages, including improved military mobility, efficient logistics transport, increased tourism, job creation, and a stronger belief in development and democracy.”
The newly launched projects span across two Union Territories, namely Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, as well as seven states: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram.
Among these initiatives are 28 roads, 93 bridges, and four additional projects, all completed at a cost of ₹5,000 crore, marking the largest inauguration in the history of the BRO.
He pointed out that the rapid advancements in India's border infrastructure—encompassing roads, tunnels, smart fencing, integrated command centers, and surveillance systems—demonstrate that connectivity is integral to national security.
Rajnath Singh praised the BRO for its remarkable efficiency and speed in executing complex projects using indigenous methods, significantly contributing to national development.
He noted that the BRO has become synonymous with 'Communication' and 'Connectivity', emphasizing the government's commitment to enhancing these critical aspects of development in border areas.
“Our Government, Armed Forces, and organizations like the BRO are tirelessly working towards the comprehensive development of our border regions. It is vital to strengthen the connection between these areas and the national mainstream, ensuring that external factors do not disrupt this bond,” he remarked.
The inauguration event took place on the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie Road at the Shyok Tunnel, one of the key projects launched by Rajnath Singh.
This engineering feat, constructed in one of the most challenging terrains globally, will provide reliable, all-weather connectivity to this strategic region. The 920-meter Cut and Cover tunnel will significantly improve security, mobility, and rapid deployment capabilities, particularly during severe winter conditions, as the area is susceptible to heavy snowfall, avalanches, and extreme temperatures.