LEH: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena on Tuesday met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi and pushed for expedited approvals and execution of key road infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening connectivity in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted several critical projects requiring early sanction from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, stressing their importance for improving connectivity, safety, and economic growth in the strategically significant region.
A major focus of the discussion was the progress of the Zoji-La Tunnel. The Union Minister informed that the final breakthrough of the tunnel is expected by the end of May. Once completed, the tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country, marking a major milestone for the region.
The Lieutenant Governor also flagged the urgent need for avalanche protection measures along the Zoji-La Top stretch. He pointed out that despite the tunnel’s completion, the route will continue to be used and remains vulnerable, citing a recent avalanche incident that claimed seven lives.
Raising the issue of pending projects under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), the Lieutenant Governor said road and bridge works worth ₹1,465.88 crore are awaiting approval. He urged the Ministry to expedite sanctions, noting that these projects are vital for enhancing infrastructure in remote and border areas.
He also sought early approval for the upgradation of the NH-03 stretch between Leh and Sindhu Ghat. While 5.20 km has already been converted into a four-lane road, the remaining 4.88 km continues as a double-lane stretch, leading to congestion. The Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for its timely upgradation to ensure smooth traffic movement.
Another key proposal discussed was the construction of the Leh Bypass. The Lieutenant Governor informed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the southern alignment of 48.10 km, estimated at ₹1,011 crore, has already been submitted, while work on the DPR for the northern alignment is underway. He said the project would significantly ease congestion in Leh town and improve urban mobility.
Responding positively, the Union Minister assured full support to Ladakh and directed officials to prioritise all infrastructure projects in the region. He stated that approvals for pending CRIF projects would be granted by May and instructed that all necessary clearances be processed on priority in a time-bound manner.
The Lieutenant Governor said timely execution of these projects would transform Ladakh’s connectivity landscape, boost tourism, facilitate economic activity, and generate employment opportunities, particularly given the region’s challenging terrain and strategic importance.
Meanwhile, the Lieutenant Governor also called on Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan at the Uprashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
