On December 28, 2021, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated 24 bridges and three roads, which have been constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

Key Points

• These bridges and roads have been constructed across four States and two Union Territories in India
• On the occasion, Defence Minister commended BRO for completing these projects, despite the challenges of high altitudes and sub-zero temperatures.
• Minister also announced to set up of ‘BRO Cafes’ at 75 places, under the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations.

Why were these bridges and roads constructed?

These bridges and roads were constructed with the aim of ensuring swift movement of troops across India’s borders with China and Pakistan. These projects will also boost tourism in the region as well as ensure socio-economic development.

Location of the bridges and roads

• Out of 24 bridges, 9 have been constructed in Jammu & Kashmir, 5 in in Ladakh, 5 in Himachal Pradesh, 3 in Uttarakhand, 1 in Sikkim and 1 in Arunachal Pradesh.
• While, out of 3 roads, 2 are in Ladakh while 1 is in West Bengal.

Double-lane Modular bridge

• Out of all the inaugurated bridges, most significant was India’s first indigenous Class 70 140-feet Double-Lane Modular Bridge. It has been built at 11,000 feet at Flag Hill Dokala in Sikkim.
• Inauguration of Chisumle-Demchok road at Umling La Pass in Ladakh, at over 19,000 feet is also significant. The road holds the Guinness World Record of World’s highest motorable road. This road will provide an alternate route from Leh to Demchock.
• Inauguration of Flag Hill-Dokla Road will reduce travel time for Indian troops to reach Dokla area near Doklam plateau.