BRO to Build World's Highest Battlefield Airfield in Ladakh, Boosting Border Infrastructure
In a significant development, India is accelerating the construction of essential infrastructure in its border areas, which is expected to outpace China's efforts in the next two to three years. The Border Roads Organization (BRO) Director-General, Lieutenant General Rajeev Chaudhary, has revealed that India is set to build the world's highest battlefield airfield in Nyoma, Ladakh. He also mentioned that Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will dedicate 90 new BRO projects to the nation on September 12th from the Devak Bridge in Jammu.
Lieutenant General Rajeev Chaudhary emphasized the substantial focus on developing foundational infrastructure in China's bordering regions. India has initiated the upgrading of Ladakh's airfields, located less than 50 kilometers from the border with China. Notably, a 2.7-kilometer concrete runway is being constructed at Nyoma Advanced Landing Ground (ALG), which will be the world's highest battlefield airfield at an altitude of 13,700 feet. This airbase holds strategic significance due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
In a bid to enhance connectivity and ease of life in border regions, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will dedicate 90 new BRO projects to the nation on September 12th. Among these, 26 projects are in Ladakh, and 36 are in Arunachal Pradesh, underscoring the focus on these two states. The total cost of these projects is estimated to be around 6,000 crore rupees and includes the construction of 22 roads, 63 bridges, and a tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, along with two strategic airfields in Bagdogra and Barekpur, and two helipads in Rajasthan and Sasoma-Saser La in Ladakh. The plan is to complete 60 of these projects by December.
Lieutenant General Rajeev Chaudhary also highlighted that the construction of the Sela Tunnel will be completed in the next 20 days. This tunnel, situated in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, will be the world's longest twin-lane tunnel at over 13,000 feet in elevation. It will serve as a "lifeline" by providing connectivity to the Tawang sector in all weather conditions. Additionally, plans for the Shinku La Tunnel, at an altitude of 15,855 feet, are in the final stages. This tunnel will connect Janskar-Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh and will be the world's highest tunnel.
According to Lieutenant General Rajeev Chaudhary, through these dedicated projects, India is rapidly advancing in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized that the current government is providing support, along with budget allocations, to expedite the work on the LAC with all vehicles and machinery. He noted that India was not as close to the LAC previously, but over the past three years, they have been increasing their pace, ensuring connectivity to the farthest border outposts.