Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari said that upgrading and widening of 230 kilometer long Kargil-Zanskar road which is a vital segment of National Highway 301 has been initiated in Ladakh. In a series of tweets stated that this vast project, divided into 8 packages, saw the successful completion of Pkg 5, with Pkg 6 and 7 expected this fiscal year. The Minister said that these 3 packages comprise a staggering 97,726 km, with 13 major bridges, 18 minor bridges and a staggering 620 culverts.
Shri Gadkari said the terrain presents immense challenges, with a deep gorge on one side and a steep hill on the other. According to him, the region’s hostile environment, characterized by sparse vegetation and low oxygen levels, combined with the extremely cold climate, exacerbates the difficulties. More than half of the stretch lacks homes and network connectivity.
The Minister said that once completed, this all-weather road will serve as a crucial infrastructure asset, facilitating the movement of troops and heavy artillery. Beyond its strategic importance, the project is intended to stimulate economic development and tourism in the region, he added.
Shri Gadkari said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, this ambitious initiative reflects the commitment to achieve efficient, hassle-free and environment-friendly mobility in the border region.
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MJPS
