India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday virtually unveiled and dedicated five major infrastructure initiatives valued at approximately INR 3,350 crore in Ladakh via video link, spanning airport development, strategic road networks, clean energy, cultural heritage preservation, and water security.

Delivering his virtual address, PM Modi noted that the initiatives would enhance transit links and access to vital services while fortifying the safeguarding of Ladakh's historic heritage, stating, "Today, another chapter is being added to Ladakh's progress and development. I am pleased to be a part of this occasion through technology. Several important development projects have been inaugurated in Ladakh today. These projects will make travel easier for many people, improve electricity facilities in some areas, increase water availability in others, and strengthen the preservation of our ancient heritage."

He offered warm greetings to the residents of Ladakh as well as those who worked on the ventures, asserting, “I extend my heartiest congratulations to all the people of Ladakh for these projects. I also congratulate all the engineers, workers, and local colleagues involved in these projects. I also specially appreciate the colleagues of the BRO.”

Among the primary works commissioned was the updated passenger terminal facility at Leh's Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, erected at a cost of roughly INR 640 crore.

Covering an area of 23,800 square meters, the complex is structured to accommodate 3.5 million travelers each year.

Accentuation the facility's eco-friendly aspects, PM Modi observed that the structure integrates geothermal systems and solar power to counter the territory's severe weather conditions, explaining, "Another special feature of this terminal is that, keeping Ladakh's harsh climatic conditions in mind, geothermal technology has been used in its construction. Solar energy has also been utilised. This is the first airport terminal in India to feature geothermal heating. Congratulations to all of you."

Remembering that he had previously laid the cornerstone for the complex, PM Modi expressed gratification at being able to launch the completed facility, remarking, "Built at a cost of approximately INR 650 crore, the terminal will increase the airport's annual passenger capacity from 1 million to 3.5 million, while the number of flights could also increase up to threefold."

The Prime Minister likewise turned over the 298-kilometer Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road to the nation.

Engineered by the BRO, the highway joins Nimmu in Leh to Darcha in Himachal Pradesh across the isolated Zanskar Valley, offering a secondary transport link to Ladakh.

This vital route is anticipated to bolster supply capabilities for the Armed Forces while opening up medical services, schooling, commercial centers, and fundamental amenities for locals.

In terms of power generation, PM Modi inaugurated the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project alongside the 66 kV double-circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line, intended to stabilize electrical supply, elevate distribution networks, and tap Ladakh's hydroelectric resources.

The Prime Minister further opened India's maiden Petroglyph Conservation Park at Leh's Sindhu Ghat to safeguard the area's ancient stone etchings, which illuminate its long-standing past and cultural legacy.

Furthermore, 40 water reservoirs constructed across 40 rural communities through Project Him Sarovar were dedicated to bolster water retention and supply.

The program endeavors to alleviate periodic water deficiencies, back farming irrigation, and reinforce local agricultural livelihoods.

Taken together, these comprehensive endeavors aim to upgrade civic infrastructure, boost defense logistics, secure power supplies, protect historic culture, and optimize water management across Ladakh.

Source: ANI