Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate five development projects worth Rs. 33.5 bn in Ladakh on Thursday, focusing on connectivity, energy infrastructure, cultural heritage and water security. He is scheduled to address a gathering through video conferencing at around 12:30 p.m.

The projects include a new passenger terminal at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, built at a cost of Rs. 640 mn. Spread over 23,800 square metres, the terminal can handle 3,500,000 passengers annually and includes geothermal energy systems to improve efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint. Its design incorporates modern amenities and elements inspired by Ladakh’s cultural heritage.

The Prime Minister will also dedicate the 298-km Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). The route links Nimmu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh through the Zanskar Valley, providing an alternative connection alongside the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways. It is intended to support military mobility and access to healthcare, education, markets and other services.

Energy projects to be inaugurated include the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project and the 66 kV Double-Circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line. Together, they will strengthen power evacuation infrastructure, improve electricity supply reliability and support the use of Ladakh’s renewable energy potential.

Modi will also inaugurate India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh and 40 water bodies developed in 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar. The park will protect prehistoric rock carvings and support heritage awareness, while the water project will conserve supplies for use during periods of shortage, benefiting irrigation, agriculture and long-term water security.