Agencies | New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and dedicate to the nation five major development projects worth around ₹3,350 crore in Ladakh through video conferencing on October 15, with a focus on improving connectivity, strengthening energy infrastructure, preserving cultural heritage and enhancing water security in the high-altitude region.
The Prime Minister will launch the projects at around 12.30 pm and address the gathering on the occasion.
Among the key initiatives is the new passenger terminal building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, constructed at a cost of ₹640 crore. Spread over 23,800 square metres, the terminal is designed to handle 35 lakh passengers annually.
The facility incorporates geothermal energy to improve energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint, taking into account Ladakh’s ecologically sensitive environment. Blending modern passenger amenities with elements of the region’s cultural heritage, the terminal is expected to enhance passenger convenience and strengthen air connectivity with the rest of the country.
Modi will also dedicate the 298-km-long Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Connecting Nimmu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh through the remote Zanskar Valley, the road provides an alternative route to Ladakh alongside the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways.
Traversing challenging Himalayan terrain, including the high-altitude Shinkun La Pass, the road holds strategic importance for facilitating the movement of personnel and supplies for the Armed Forces. It is also expected to improve access to healthcare, education, markets and essential services for residents of Zanskar.
In the power sector, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project and the 66 kV double-circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line. The projects are aimed at strengthening Ladakh’s electricity network, improving the reliability of power supply and supporting the transmission of locally generated electricity. They also form part of efforts to harness the region’s hydropower potential and expand its energy infrastructure.
Another major initiative is India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh, which is intended to protect Ladakh’s ancient rock art and archaeological heritage.
The region is home to hundreds of prehistoric rock art sites featuring carvings of wildlife, human figures and symbolic representations that offer insights into its history and cultural evolution. The conservation park is expected to safeguard these vulnerable remains, promote public awareness and encourage responsible heritage tourism.
The fifth initiative involves the inauguration of 40 water bodies developed across 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar. The initiative aims to strengthen water conservation and improve water security in Ladakh, in line with the objectives of Mission Amrit Sarovar.
Agriculture in Ladakh faces a seasonal mismatch between water availability and demand. Farmers often encounter shortages during the crucial sowing season, despite the availability of snowmelt and glacial runoff at other times of the year.
Project Him Sarovar seeks to conserve water during periods of availability and store it for use when needed, supporting irrigation, agricultural livelihoods and long-term water security.
Together, the five initiatives address key development priorities in Ladakh, combining improved passenger facilities and strategic road connectivity with sustainable energy, archaeological conservation and water management.
