Union defence Minister, Rajnath Singh inaugurated 35 key infrastructure projects developed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) at a cost of Rs 670 crore. Comprising 29 bridges and six roads, these projects are strategically distributed across various challenging terrains, including 11 in Jammu & Kashmir, nine in Ladakh, and others in Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Mizoram, and Himachal Pradesh.The dedication ceremony took place on January 19, 2024, at Joshimath-Malari Road in Uttarakhand, where Shri Rajnath Singh commended the BRO for its relentless efforts in fortifying the nation’s border infrastructure. The projects aim not only to enhance geographical connectivity but also to bridge the hearts of those residing in remote areas with the rest of the nation.
Highlighting the government’s distinctive approach to border area development, Rajnath Singh emphasized a departure from past policies that considered border areas as mere buffer zones. Instead, the current administration views these regions as an integral part of the nation’s mainstream, demonstrating a commitment to world-class infrastructure development.
The Minister underscored the significance of connectivity through roads, bridges, and tunnels, emphasizing their strategic importance and their pivotal role in the welfare of the people living in border regions. He likened the residents of these areas to unsung heroes, serving the motherland in their unique ways.
Singh drew attention to the government’s proactive stance in developing infrastructure on mountains and deploying troops on hill borders. This approach ensures the safety of people in these areas and enables the military to effectively address potential adversaries without waiting for them to reach the plains.
Expressing concern over large-scale migration from border areas in Uttarakhand, Singh assured that infrastructure development schemes would reach every citizen, covering the development journey from seas to borders. Additionally, he addressed the escalating natural disasters in border states, attributing them to climate change. The Ministry of Defence is set to seek cooperation from friendly countries to address this serious national security issue.
Commending the BRO’s recent contribution to the Silkyra Tunnel operation, he praised the coordinated efforts involving the National Disaster Response Force, BRO, Indian Air Force, and state agencies as a stellar example of teamwork during a crisis.
Singh also acknowledged the unique workforce of the BRO, including Armed Forces personnel, Permanent Civilian employees, and Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs). He highlighted the positive change in mindset towards CPLs, recognizing their integral role in strengthening the border framework.
Enumerating steps taken by the Ministry of Defence to enhance the well-being of BRO personnel, Singh assured increased allowances and compensation. Out of the 35 inaugurated projects, the Dhak Bridge, a 93-meter-long Class 70R bridge over Dhak Nallah, holds strategic importance, boosting connectivity to borders and enhancing operational preparedness.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the event, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the central and state governments. The projects not only promise enhanced connectivity but also hold the potential to spur socio-economic development, promoting tourism and generating employment opportunities in the region.