Ladakh's Connectivity Boom: Centre Accelerates Road, Rail, and Air Infrastructure

SRINAGAR: Infrastructure development in Ladakh has gained unprecedented momentum since its elevation to a Union Territory following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Addressing journalists in Leh, junior Union highways minister Harsh Malhotra described the transformation as a "tsunami of development," with road, rail, and air connectivity witnessing massive investment.

“The Centre has allocated ₹20,660 crore for road development in Ladakh since 2020,” Malhotra said, highlighting major projects aimed at enhancing both civilian and military accessibility.

Rail and Air Connectivity on the Fast Track

One of the most ambitious initiatives is the Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway project, with an allocation of ₹1.31 lakh crore. Once completed, this railway line will cut the travel time between Delhi and Leh from 40 hours (by road) to just 20 hours. Malhotra also clarified that the Srinagar-Leh rail project has not been scrapped but is currently on hold.

Air connectivity is also receiving a major boost, with ₹640 crore earmarked for a new terminal at Leh airport to improve passenger capacity and operations.

All-Weather Road Links Strengthening Ladakh

Malhotra, accompanied by Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) chief executive Tashi Gyalson, outlined key road projects transforming the region. Among them is the Shinku La Tunnel, a ₹1,200-crore twin-tube structure at 15,800 ft on the Nimu-Padum-Darcha Road. Inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on July 26 last year, the tunnel is expected to be completed in two years, providing a crucial all-weather link between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh.

Additionally, ₹2,405 crore has been allocated for the Nimu-Padum-Darcha Road, further strengthening Ladakh’s connectivity. Other major infrastructure projects include the Zanskar-Kargil road and the Zoji La tunnel, both critical for ensuring year-round access to the region.

With these extensive developments, Ladakh is on track to becoming a highly connected and strategically significant region, benefiting both its residents and the nation’s security forces.