Rajnath Singh inaugurates 125 BRO projects to boost border connectivity

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday dedicated 125 new infrastructure projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to the nation, marking the largest-ever simultaneous inauguration by the organisation. The projects, worth around ₹5,000 crore , include 28 roads, 93 bridges and four other key works built across Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir and seven other states.

Speaking at the event on the Darbuk–Shyok–Daulat Beg Oldie Road , the Minister said these projects will greatly improve last-mile connectivity to remote villages and vital military areas along India’s borders. He called the new works a reflection of the government’s commitment to strengthening border infrastructure in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat .

A major highlight of the inauguration was the Shyok Tunnel , a 920-metre cut-and-cover tunnel built in one of the world’s most challenging terrains. Rajnath Singh said the tunnel will ensure all-weather access to this sensitive region, improving mobility, security and the rapid movement of troops, especially during harsh winters marked by heavy snowfall and avalanches.

The Minister noted that the BRO recorded its highest-ever spending of ₹16,690 crore in 2024–25 and is targeting ₹18,700 crore for 2025–26, showing the government’s confidence in the organisation’s ability to deliver. He also highlighted India’s progress toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat , saying defence production has risen from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to ₹1.51 lakh crore , while exports have increased to nearly ₹24,000 crore .

BRO Director General Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan thanked the government for its support, saying it has helped the organisation expand its capabilities in some of the most difficult and strategically important areas. He also praised the dedication of BRO personnel who worked in extreme conditions to complete the projects.

The event was attended by several senior leaders, including the Governors of Rajasthan and Mizoram, the Lieutenant Governors of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, Chief Ministers of J&K and Mizoram, Union Ministers, senior Army officials and BRO personnel.