Leh, Apr 02: Border Roads Organisation (BRO) achieved a significant milestone by connecting the strategic Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road in Ladakh. Spanning 298 kilometers, this crucial route links Manali to Leh through Darcha and Nimmu on the Kargil – Leh Highway, thereby establishing the third axis for Ladakh’s connectivity to the hinterland.
An official said that the Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road’s strategic significance lies in its shorter distance compared to the existing axes and its traversal of only one pass, Shinkun La (16,558 feet). The BRO is set to commence tunnel construction at Shinkun La, ensuring all-weather connectivity to the Ladakh region. This development is poised to bolster defense preparedness and foster economic growth in the Zanskar valley.
Lieutenant General Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of Border Roads, highlighted the swift mobilization of equipment and personnel in January, leveraging the frozen River Zanskar to complete the connectivity establishment. He expressed confidence that black-topping the road will commence shortly. Additionally, the initiation of Shinkun La tunnel construction marks the establishment of a third all-weather axis to Ladakh, enhancing regional accessibility and resilience.
