Kargil, Aug 05: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) senior leader Haji Anayat Ali on Monday said significant progress has been witnessed in Ladakh Union Territory, particularly in Kargil, following the abrogation of Article 370 on August 05, 2019.
In an interview with Rising Kashmir, Ali highlighted the region’s transformative developments and future vision.
“There has been a substantial increase in funding for the Zojila Tunnel project, now amounting to Rs 6,000 crore,” he said. “The Zojila Tunnel is a game-changer for Kargil, ensuring year-round connectivity with Srinagar and Leh. This will boost our economy and significantly reduce travel time.”
Anayat said that Kargil now enjoys 24/7 electricity, improved road connectivity and other major facilities since August 5, 2019. “Another significant infrastructure project is the proposed alternative road connectivity from Keylong to Leh via Darcha in the Zanskar Valley, which aims to mitigate issues caused by frequent blockages on the Manali-Leh road, enhancing accessibility and promoting regional trade and tourism,” he said.
The BJP leader saidthe powers of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC) have been significantly augmented, with increased constituency funds enabling more effective local development projects.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, special funds were allocated for LAHDC Kargil, which were used for the evacuation of stranded individuals, showcasing the government’s commitment to responsive governance, he added.
Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Carbon Neutral Ladakh, Haji Anayat Ali outlined ongoing and future initiatives, including a Rs 50,000 crore grid-connected solar photovoltaic project aimed at harnessing 7,500 MW of solar power, a significant step towards sustainable energy for the region.
He underscored achievements in sports, saying the abrogation of Article 370 has opened new avenues for local athletes, allowing them to compete at national and international levels. This provides youth with platforms to showcase their talents and gain global recognition, he said.
Expressing optimism about the future of Kargil and Ladakh, Anayat noted the rapid development post the UT status, saying that with continued support from the Central government, Ladakh is on a path to a prosperous and sustainable future.
Recently, PM Narendra Modi conducted the first blast of the Shinkula Tunnel on the NPD Road during the Rajat Jayanti Celebrations of Kargil Vijay Diwas, further enhancing road connectivity. “Water accessibility has improved with the successful completion of the Jal Jeevan Mission, and digital connectivity has expanded significantly,” Haji said.
He said that following the abrogation of Article 370, officers have been receiving their due promotions, with engineers now holding the rank of Chief Engineers and other officials benefiting similarly. There is a modernisation of office complexes and better working conditions for employees, he said.
Anayat Ali questioned the benefits of remerging with Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that the current flow of funds and development would not be possible under the erstwhile J&K state government. He urged for continued focus on the welfare of Ladakh under its current status.
He also expressed sorrow over the recent landslide at Kabadi Nallah and urged the LG Ladakh to relocate the affected families to safer areas and declare the zone as high-risk.
