JAMMU, October 15, 2026 – In a massive push to bolster infrastructure, connectivity, and cultural preservation in the border region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated five major development projects in the Union Territory of Ladakh worth approximately Rs 3,350 crore.
Addressing the region via video conferencing, the Prime Minister dedicated these critical projects to the nation, which are set to significantly enhance energy infrastructure, improve water security, and supplement strategic road connectivity for both the armed forces and local residents.
One of the flagship projects inaugurated is the New Passenger Terminal Building at Kushok Bakula Rimpoche Airport in Leh. Constructed at a cost of Rs 640 crore and spread over 23,800 square meters, the modern terminal is designed to handle 35 lakh passengers annually. Significantly, it incorporates geothermal energy to minimize its carbon footprint, blending modern amenities with elements of Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage.
Enhancing strategic and civilian connectivity, the PM inaugurated the 298-km-long Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road. Constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), this critical road connects Nimmu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh through the remote Zanskar Valley. Navigating the high-altitude Shinkun La Pass, it provides an alternative and highly strategic connectivity corridor to Ladakh, supplementing the existing Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways, while improving Zanskar residents’ access to healthcare and education.
To strengthen energy security and harness the region’s renewable energy potential, the Prime Minister inaugurated the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project and the 66 kV double-circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi transmission line. These projects are expected to vastly improve the reliability of Ladakh’s electricity network.
Recognizing the urgent need for water conservation in the arid, high-altitude region, PM Modi inaugurated 40 water bodies across 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar. Aligned with Mission Amrit Sarovar, this initiative aims to conserve snowmelt and glacial runoff to support irrigation and sustain agricultural livelihoods during the crucial, water-scarce sowing season.
Finally, emphasizing the preservation of the region’s ancient history, the Prime Minister inaugurated India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh, dedicated to protecting prehistoric rock art sites that offer insights into thousands of years of human history.
Coinciding with the inaugurations, a crucial Sub-Committee meeting constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) was also scheduled in Leh to hold talks with local leaders from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) regarding the region’s administrative and developmental issues.
Published by True Roots Media Network