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Rajnath Singh Inaugurates 75 BRO Projects Worth Rs 2,236 Crore
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated 75 infrastructure projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on October 12, 2024, from the Trishakti Corps Headquarters in Sukna, West Bengal. These projects, valued at Rs 2,236 crore, include 22 roads, 51 bridges, and two additional projects across 11 states and union territories, including Jammu & Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Sikkim.
Strengthening Border Infrastructure
The newly inaugurated projects are part of the government’s effort to strengthen border infrastructure and ensure socio-economic progress in remote areas. Key among these projects is the Kupup-Sherathang Road in Sikkim, a crucial link between Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg and the Zuluk axis. This road, along with other developments, aims to enhance India’s defense preparedness and overall strategic capabilities.
In his address, Rajnath Singh highlighted that these projects are aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat by 2047” and emphasized that strong infrastructure in border regions is essential for both national security and economic development.
BRO’s Rapid Development
With these 75 projects, the BRO has completed 111 infrastructure projects in 2024, at a total cost of Rs 3,751 crore. This follows last year’s completion of 125 BRO projects worth Rs 3,611 crore, including the high-profile Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh. Rajnath Singh praised the BRO personnel for completing these projects despite challenging terrains and harsh weather conditions.
The minister also pointed out the increased allocation of Rs 6,500 crore for BRO in the 2024-25 Union Budget, indicating the government’s commitment to further bolster border infrastructure, especially in critical regions like the North-East.
Future of Border Development
Rajnath Singh underscored that the Modi-led government’s focus on border infrastructure since 2014 has accelerated development in these crucial regions. He also emphasized that earlier governments feared that such infrastructure could benefit adversaries, but the current administration views it as vital for both defense and economic growth.
The event was attended by high-ranking military officials, including Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and senior government representatives, alongside state governors and chief ministers participating virtually. The inauguration sets the stage for continued investment in India’s border areas, further enhancing security and connectivity.
