Leh, Jul 20 (PTI) Ladakh Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Monday laid the foundation stones of the Burma–Sumoor and Tongsted Motorable Bridges over the Siachen River during his maiden visit to Nubra district, an official spokesperson said.
The two projects, being executed under the Special Development Package (SDP) of the UT Administration, will significantly transform connectivity in the border region, he said.
Once completed, the Burma–Sumoor Bridge will reduce the distance between Sumoor and the villages of Burma, Charasa, Kuri, and Murgi from nearly 70 km to just about 500 metres. At the same time, the Tongsted Bridge will provide reliable all-weather connectivity to several remote villages, bringing essential services closer to the people.
Addressing the gathering, the Lt Governor said it was a privilege to visit the breathtaking Nubra Valley for the first time and to dedicate two transformative infrastructure projects to its people.
He congratulated the residents of Nubra and said the projects reflected the Administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening infrastructure and ensuring inclusive and balanced development in Ladakh’s border areas.
“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ladakh has witnessed unprecedented infrastructure development since becoming a Union Territory (in August 2019). From expanding the road network and constructing strategic bridges to strengthening connectivity in our remotest border villages, every effort has been directed towards improving the quality of life of our people,” Saxena said.
He said these bridges are not merely engineering structures; they are lifelines that will reduce distances, connect communities to opportunities, strengthen border infrastructure, and unlock new avenues for agriculture, tourism, and economic growth across Nubra Valley.
The Lt Governor said the rivers of Nubra are the lifeline of the valley, sustaining agriculture, horticulture and livelihoods, but often become major barriers to movement during floods and adverse weather.
He said the construction of these all-weather bridges would ensure safe, reliable and uninterrupted connectivity throughout the year while making the lives of people living in remote villages significantly easier.
Saxena also highlighted Nubra’s immense tourism potential and said the improved road infrastructure and bridge connectivity would further boost tourism, create new livelihood opportunities for local youth through homestays, transport, handicrafts and adventure tourism, and stimulate economic growth across the valley.
The spokesperson said the Burma–Sumoor Bridge Project, sanctioned at Rs 64.10 crore, comprises 470 metres of bridges at three locations, a 2.5-kilometre approach road and six RCC culverts.
Similarly, the Tongsted Bridge Project, sanctioned at Rs 19.29 crore, involves the construction of a 160-metre Steel Plate Girder Bridge over the Siachen River, he said. PTI TAS ASD ASD
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