Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and dedicated infrastructure projects worth Rs. 33.5 bn in Ladakh, covering roads, aviation, renewable energy and water infrastructure. The projects include a new terminal at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh, the Nimmu-Padum-Darcha road, hydropower facilities and 40 reservoirs.

The Rs. 6.5 bn airport terminal is expected to triple flight capacity and increase annual passenger-handling capacity from 1 mn to 3.5 mn. The terminal incorporates geothermal heating and solar energy systems designed for Ladakh’s harsh climate. The project is intended to support tourism while limiting the environmental impact of infrastructure expansion.

Modi also dedicated the Rs. 25 bn Nimmu-Padum-Darcha road, which reduces the journey between the locations from 12 hours to three hours. The road is strategically important for improving connectivity across the Union Territory. A dedicated project had become operational before the formal ceremony, while an inaugurated project began operations after the event.

The Prime Minister also dedicated the Hanu hydroelectric project and its associated transmission network. He referred to continuing power-generation initiatives in Puga Valley and said the expansion of reliable electricity infrastructure would benefit multiple sectors in the region.

In addition, 40 newly constructed reservoirs developed under Project Amrit Him Sarovar were dedicated. Modi said Ladakh, which became a separate Union Territory in 2019, was being developed as a hub for winter and adventure tourism. More than 40 border settlements are being upgraded under the Vibrant Villages Programme, while local homestays have increased from about 150 to 3,000. The expansion of BharatNet and high-speed internet is also intended to improve access to e-governance, online education and wider markets for local entrepreneurs.