Defense Minister to Inaugurate 90 Key Border Infrastructure Projects

According to a press release from the Ministry of Defense, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh is set to inaugurate and dedicate 90 infrastructure projects along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) on September 12, at a total cost of Rs 29.41 billion.

These 90 projects encompass the construction of roads, bridges, tunnels, and airfields in 10 border states and union territories along the LAC, all executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Notably, last year saw the dedication of 103 BRO infrastructure projects, amounting to Rs 28.97 billion.

The ceremony will take place at the Devak Bridge on the Bishnah-Kaulpur-Phulpur Road in Jammu and Kashmir, organised by the Border Roads Organisation. During this event, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate 22 roads, 63 bridges, the Nechiphu Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, two airfields in West Bengal, and two helipads.

The highlight of the occasion will be the inauguration of the state-of-the-art 422.9 meters long Class 70 RCC Devak Bridge on the Bishnah-Kaulpur-Phulpur Road in Jammu and Kashmir. This bridge holds strategic importance for our defence forces as it will facilitate the rapid deployment of troops, heavy equipment, and mechanised vehicles to forward areas. Additionally, it will contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.

Another significant infrastructure project to be inaugurated is the 500-meter-long Nechiphu Tunnel on the Balipara-Charduar-Tawang Road in Arunachal Pradesh. Alongside the under-construction Sela Tunnel, this tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity to the strategically crucial Tawang Region, benefiting both the armed forces stationed there and tourists visiting the pristine Tawang area.

The reconstructed and revamped Bagdogra and Barrackpore Airfields in West Bengal will also be inaugurated on September 12. The BRO has successfully reconstructed these airfields at a cost of Rs 5.29 billion. These airfields will not only enhance the defensive and offensive capabilities of the Indian Air Force along the Northern Borders but also support commercial flight operations in the region.

Furthermore, the Defence Minister will conduct the e-shilanyash (foundation stone laying) ceremony for the Nyoma Airfield in Ladakh, which is being developed at a cost of Rs 2.18 billion for hosting a wide range of strategic air assets. This airfield's construction will significantly boost the air infrastructure in Ladakh and strengthen the Indian Air Force's capabilities along the Northern Borders.

The BRO's substantial efforts in road and bridge construction over the past three years have led to the completion of critical and strategic projects, bolstering India's defence readiness compared to that of its adversaries. Additionally, these efforts have connected some of the remotest villages in the country, such as Huri Village in Arunachal Pradesh, to the mainland. This connectivity has triggered a reverse migration, with population growth in these border areas, thanks to improved amenities such as schools, healthcare centres, electricity supply, and employment opportunities.