Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Nov 4: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta today met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, in New Delhi and discussed measures to speed up major road and tunnel projects to strengthen connectivity in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, the Lt Governor thanked the Ministry for its continued support in transforming Ladakh’s road network, citing the success of the Zojila Tunnel as a major step in improving regional confidence and connectivity.
He sought the Minister’s intervention for early approval and execution of the Key-La Tunnel Project, terming it vital for ensuring all-weather connectivity in eastern Ladakh.
He also proposed handing over the project and two important bypass roads – Phey-Ranbirpura and Rinchen Chowk-Saboo Village Junction – to NHIDCL for faster completion.
The Lt Governor also requested approval for a supplementary proposal under CRIF 2024-25, including construction of a double-lane bridge over River Shyok under the Setu Bandhan Scheme.
He further urged inclusion of new roads and bridges in next year’s CRIF proposals to improve regional mobility.
Highlighting the Panikhar-Pahalgam Road Project, Gupta said the route would provide an alternate link between Ladakh and Kashmir while boosting tourism and local livelihoods.
The project includes a 3-km tunnel at Bobang Gali Pass to ensure year-round connectivity.
The Union Minister assured full cooperation and said the Ministry remains committed to accelerating infrastructure development in Ladakh, given its strategic and economic importance.
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