Joshimath-Malari Road: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh dedicated 35 key infrastructure projects constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to the nation. Valued at Rs 670 crore, these projects encompass roads, bridges, and tunnels, reinforcing the border infrastructure of the nation. The dedication ceremony took place at Joshimath-Malari Road in Uttarakhand, where the Raksha Mantri lauded the BRO’s relentless efforts in linking remote areas to the national mainstream.
Strengthening Border Infrastructure
Commending the BRO’s pivotal role, Rajnath Singh highlighted the strategic importance of constructing roads, bridges, and tunnels to connect far-flung areas with the rest of the nation. This not only enhances geographical connectivity but also fosters a profound connection between the hearts of people residing in remote villages and the broader citizenry.
Revolutionizing Border Area Development
In his address, the Raksha Mantri underscored the transformative approach of the Narendra Modi-led Government towards border area development. He contrasted this approach with past governments, emphasizing that border areas are now considered the face of India. The present administration aims to ensure world-class infrastructure in these zones, focusing on their comprehensive development.
Border Areas: Integral Part of Mainstream India
Rajnath Singh emphasized the shift in mindset regarding border areas, highlighting that the current government views them as an integral part of the mainstream, not mere buffer zones. He recalled past mentalities that treated border areas as potential adversary buffer zones, hindering development. Today, the government is committed to robust border area development, aligning with national security needs.
Connectivity for Welfare and Strategic Significance
The Raksha Mantri stressed that providing connectivity through roads, bridges, and tunnels to every border area is of both strategic importance and crucial for the welfare of the people residing in these regions. He likened the residents of border areas to soldiers, contributing to the nation’s service in their unique way.
New Confidence of ‘New India’
Expressing confidence in ‘New India,’ Rajnath Singh declared that the government is proactively developing infrastructure on mountains and deploying troops on hill borders for the safety of people and effective responses to adversaries. This marks a departure from waiting for potential adversaries to reach the plains.
Concerns about Migration in Uttarakhand
Acknowledging the significant migration from border areas in Uttarakhand, the Raksha Mantri expressed concern. He highlighted the government’s commitment, led by the Prime Minister and Chief Minister, to extend infrastructure development schemes to the last person, ensuring comprehensive development from the seas to the borders.
Climate Change and National Security
Rajnath Singh drew attention to the increasing natural disasters in border States/UTs and termed climate change a serious issue related to national security. The Ministry of Defence is addressing climate change seriously and seeking cooperation from friendly countries in this regard.
BRO’s Contribution and Teamwork in Crisis
Singling out the recent Silkyra Tunnel operation in Uttarakhand, the Raksha Mantri praised the BRO’s contribution. He commended the coordinated efforts of the National Disaster Response Force, BRO, Indian Air Force, and state agencies as a great example of teamwork.
BRO Personnel: A Unique Workforce
Acknowledging the unique workforce of BRO personnel, including Armed Forces personnel, Permanent Civilian employees, and Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs), Rajnath Singh highlighted the changed mindset regarding CPLs. The government now recognizes their vital role and contribution, fostering a sense of ownership and belonging among them.
Enhancing Quality of Life for BRO Personnel
The Raksha Mantri detailed steps taken by the Ministry of Defence to enhance the quality of life and overall well-being of BRO personnel, including CPLs and their Next of Kin. This includes financial support, risk, and hardship allowances, and insurance provisions.
Key Projects Inaugurated
Out of the 35 projects inaugurated, 29 are bridges and six are roads. These projects, constructed under challenging conditions, are spread across various border States and Union Territories, including Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Mizoram, and Himachal Pradesh.
Strategic Importance of Dhak Bridge
The event was organized at the Dhak Bridge, a state-of-the-art 93-meter long Class 70R bridge over Dhak Nallah. Inaugurating the bridge on-site, the Raksha Mantri highlighted its strategic importance in providing increased connectivity to the borders, enhancing operational preparedness, and promoting socio-economic development in the region.
The remaining 34 projects, including the Ragini-Ustad-Pharkian Gali Road in J&K, were e-inaugurated by Rajnath Singh. This 38.25-km long road will provide all-weather connectivity between Tangdhar and Keren sector, bolstering military operational readiness.
The dedication ceremony witnessed the presence of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and marked a significant milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to fortify border infrastructure and connectivity.