Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari Thursday said that the Kargil-Zanskar intermediate lane on National Highway 301 in Ladakh is being upgraded.
In a post on X, Gadkari said the total length of the project is 31.14 kilometers and falls under Package-6. He said the main aim of this effort is to boost economic growth in the area by providing a reliable and accessible link for both commuters and the movement of goods in the interior zones.
The Union Minister said the upgraded highway will ensure year-round accessibility, which will greatly benefit the local economy and the inhabitants of the region.
He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this ambitious project is dedicated to achieving swift, hassle-free, and environmentally conscious mobility in the Ladakh region.
A cold desert region, Ladakh is a remote and sparsely populated area, with a difficult terrain that makes road construction challenging. However, in recent years, there has been significant investment in road infrastructure in Ladakh, with the aim of improving connectivity and boosting economic development.
One of the most important road projects in Ladakh is the Zojila Pass Tunnel. The Zojila Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass that is closed for several months of the year due to snow and avalanches. The tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Leh, and it is expected to be completed by 2026.
Another major road project in Ladakh is the construction of the Leh-Manali Expressway. The expressway will provide a faster and safer route between Leh and Manali, and it is expected to be completed by 2024.
In addition to these major projects, there are a number of other road improvement projects underway in Ladakh. These include the widening and strengthening of existing roads, the construction of new bridges, and the improvement of road safety features.
The improvement of road infrastructure in Ladakh is having a number of positive benefits. It is making it easier for people to travel to and from Ladakh, which is boosting tourism and trade. It is also helping to improve access to essential services for the people of Ladakh.
The improvement of road infrastructure is also contributing to Ladakh's economic development. It is making it easier for businesses to operate in Ladakh, and it is attracting new investment to the region.