New Delhi, 14 October (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate five development projects worth approximately Rs.3,350 crore to the nation in Ladakh on Thursday, October 15. The Prime Minister will join the programme via video conferencing at around 12.30 pm and address the gathering. The projects are expected to strengthen air connectivity, strategic road infrastructure, electricity supply, cultural heritage conservation and water security in the region.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), PM Modi will inaugurate the new passenger terminal building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, constructed at a cost of Rs.640 crore. Spread across 23,800 square metres, the terminal has the capacity to handle 3.5 million passengers annually. It incorporates geothermal energy to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Equipped with modern passenger amenities and architectural elements reflecting Ladakh’s cultural heritage, the terminal is expected to significantly improve air connectivity to the region.

The Prime Minister will also dedicate the 298-kilometre Nimu-Padum-Darcha road to the nation. Constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the road connects Nimu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh, passing through the remote Zanskar Valley. It will provide Ladakh with an alternative connectivity route in addition to the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways.

Traversing challenging Himalayan terrain, including the high-altitude Shinkun La Pass, the road is expected to strengthen the movement of armed forces and facilitate the transportation of essential supplies. It will also improve local residents’ access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, markets and other essential services.

Boost to Energy Security and Hydropower Infrastructure

To strengthen energy security and harness the region’s hydropower potential, PM Modi will inaugurate the 9-megawatt Hanu Small Hydropower Project and the 66-kV double-circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi transmission line.

These projects are expected to improve the reliability of the electricity supply network and strengthen the transmission infrastructure required to distribute the power generated in the region. The initiatives will contribute to meeting local energy requirements and improving the resilience of Ladakh’s power infrastructure.

India’s First Petroglyph Conservation Park to Preserve Ladakh’s Heritage

As part of efforts to preserve Ladakh’s ancient archaeological heritage, the Prime Minister will inaugurate India’s first petroglyph conservation park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh.

The region is home to hundreds of sites featuring prehistoric rock art and engraved figures that offer glimpses into thousands of years of human history. These engravings depict wildlife, human figures and symbolic representations, providing valuable insights into the region’s cultural and historical evolution.

The conservation park is expected to support the protection of these rare archaeological treasures, raise public awareness about their significance and promote responsible heritage tourism in Ladakh.

Forty Water Bodies to Strengthen Water Security in Ladakh

PM Modi will also inaugurate 40 water bodies developed across 40 villages under the Project Him Sarovar initiative. Aligned with the objectives of the Mission Amrit Sarovar, the initiative aims to strengthen water conservation and improve the management of available water resources in Ladakh.

Despite receiving water from melting snow and glaciers, the region faces seasonal water shortages, particularly during critical sowing periods when farmers require adequate supplies for irrigation. The newly developed water bodies are expected to help store available water for use when needed, improve irrigation facilities and support sustainable agricultural livelihoods.

Together, the five projects represent a significant investment in Ladakh’s infrastructure and development. By improving connectivity, strengthening energy infrastructure, conserving cultural heritage and enhancing water security, the initiatives are expected to address key regional needs and improve the quality of life for local residents.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar