Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announces major milestones in Kargil-Zanskar road upgrade Project in Ladakh
Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, announced significant progress in the upgrade and widening of the 230-kilometer-long Kargil-Zanskar Road, a crucial section of National Highway 301, located in Ladakh. In a series of tweets, he shared that this extensive project, divided into eight packages, has successfully completed Package 5, with Packages 6 and 7 scheduled for completion in the current fiscal year. These three packages cover an impressive 97.726 kilometers, featuring 13 major bridges, 18 minor bridges, and a remarkable 620 box culverts.
Gadkari acknowledged the immense challenges posed by the terrain, with a deep gorge on one side and a steep hill on the other. He highlighted the region’s harsh environmental conditions, characterized by limited vegetation, low oxygen levels, and extreme cold weather, all of which add to the project’s complexity. Furthermore, more than half of the stretch lacks human habitation and network connectivity.
The Minister emphasized that upon its completion, this all-weather road will serve as a critical infrastructure asset, facilitating the movement of troops and heavy artillery. In addition to its strategic significance, the project is expected to stimulate economic development and promote tourism in the region.
Gadkari also credited the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for driving this ambitious initiative, demonstrating a commitment to achieving efficient, hassle-free, and environmentally conscious mobility in the border region.
