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During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor updated the Minister on several key projects requiring early approval from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Lieutenant Governor Saxena reviewed the progress of the Zoji-La Tunnel, with Nitin Gadkari confirming the final breakthrough is anticipated by the end of May. Upon completion, the tunnel will link Ladakh with the rest of India, providing all-weather connectivity.

The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the urgent need for avalanche protection measures along the Zoji-La Top stretch, highlighting that despite the tunnel’s completion, this route will continue to be used for traffic. He cited a recent avalanche incident in the area that resulted in seven fatalities.

Saxena raised the issue of pending projects under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), stating that approvals are awaited for road and bridge works amounting to Rs 1465.88 crore. He underlined the importance of these projects for connectivity, safety, and economic growth, especially in remote and strategically significant parts of Ladakh.

Discussion also covered the upgrade of the NH-03 stretch from Leh to Sindhu Ghat. The Lieutenant Governor noted that 5.20 km of the total 10.08 km has been upgraded to a four-lane road, while the remaining 4.88 km remains a double-lane stretch, causing traffic congestion. He requested prompt approval for upgrading the remaining section to improve traffic flow.

Additionally, Saxena sought early sanction for the Leh Bypass construction. He said the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the southern alignment of 48.10 km, estimated at Rs 1011 crore, has been submitted, with the northern alignment DPR under preparation. The project aims to reduce congestion within Leh town and enhance urban mobility.

Minister Gadkari acknowledged Ladakh’s strategic importance and instructed officials to prioritize all infrastructure projects in the region promptly and within set timelines. He assured that sanctions for the pending CRIF projects would be granted by May and directed the relevant officials to expedite all necessary approvals.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that timely completion of these initiatives would transform Ladakh’s connectivity and infrastructure. He stated that robust road infrastructure is crucial for the region’s development, given its strategic location and challenging terrain, and that these projects will facilitate tourism, economic activities, and employment opportunities for local residents.