Leh: Vinai Kumar Saxena met Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi to accelerate key infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening road connectivity in Ladakh.
During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted several pending road and bridge projects under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), worth over ₹1,465 crore, and sought early approvals to boost connectivity in remote and strategically important areas.
A major focus of the discussion was the Zoji-La Tunnel, a crucial project that will provide all-weather connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of India. The Union Minister indicated that a key breakthrough in the tunnel is expected soon, marking a significant milestone.
The L-G also stressed the need for avalanche protection measures along the Zoji-La stretch, noting safety concerns due to recent incidents in the region.
Key Infrastructure Demands
- Early approval of pending CRIF-funded projects
- Upgradation of the Leh–Sindhu Ghat stretch on NH-03 to reduce congestion
- Sanction of the proposed Leh Bypass project to ease traffic within the city
- Strengthening of safety infrastructure in high-risk avalanche zones
Officials said the proposed Leh Bypass, estimated at over ₹1,000 crore, will significantly improve urban mobility and reduce congestion in Leh town.
Centre Assures Priority
Gadkari assured that Ladakh’s infrastructure projects will be treated as a priority, directing officials to expedite approvals and ensure time-bound execution. He also indicated that pending sanctions could be cleared soon.
Strategic Importance
The Ladakh administration emphasised that improved road infrastructure is critical for:
- Enhancing connectivity in remote and border areas
- Boosting tourism and economic development
- Ensuring safety and year-round accessibility
The meeting underscores the strategic significance of Ladakh, where robust road connectivity is essential not only for civilian mobility but also for national security, given the region’s challenging terrain and border location.
