25/08/2026
DGBR Reviews Strategic Infrastructure Development Under Project Yojak
Leh, August 25: Lieutenant General Harpal Singh, AVSM, VSM, Director General Border Roads (DGBR), undertook a three-day visit to Project Yojak from August 18 to 20, 2026, to review the progress of major strategic infrastructure projects being executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the challenging high-altitude terrain of Ladakh.
During the visit, the DGBR conducted a comprehensive review of the progress of the Nimmu-Padam-Darcha (NPD) Road and the ongoing construction of the Shinkun La Tunnel, both of which are considered significant components of Ladakh's strategic and all-weather connectivity network.
The Nimmu-Padam-Darcha Road is emerging as an important alternative connectivity corridor between Ladakh and the rest of the country. The road passes through some of the most difficult mountainous terrain and involves construction and improvement works at high altitudes. Its completion is expected to provide a strategically important route while also improving connectivity for the people of the remote Zanskar region.
The Shinkun La Tunnel is another major infrastructure project being undertaken in the region. The tunnel is aimed at providing more reliable and all-weather connectivity across the high-altitude Shinkun La sector, where harsh winters and heavy snowfall can severely affect surface connectivity. Once operational, the tunnel is expected to reduce the difficulties associated with seasonal road closures and contribute significantly to the movement of people, essential supplies and strategic resources.
During his visit, Lieutenant General Harpal Singh reviewed the progress of ongoing works and interacted with personnel deployed at various locations under Project Yojak. He took stock of the challenges faced by BRO teams while executing major engineering works in difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions and at high elevations.
The DGBR also interacted with BRO Karmayogis, recognising their dedication and perseverance in executing critical infrastructure projects under demanding conditions. He appreciated their commitment, professional approach and sustained efforts towards strengthening strategic connectivity in the region.
The BRO personnel working on these projects face numerous challenges, including extreme cold, high altitude, difficult geological conditions, limited working seasons and logistical constraints. Despite these challenges, BRO Karmayogis continue to work in remote and inhospitable areas to ensure that vital infrastructure projects progress according to schedule.
The visit also highlighted the broader significance of infrastructure development in Ladakh. Improved road and tunnel connectivity is important not only from the perspective of national security and strategic mobility but also for the socio-economic development of remote communities. Better connectivity can facilitate access to healthcare, education, markets, tourism and essential services while improving the movement of goods and people.
The Nimmu-Padam-Darcha corridor, in particular, is expected to provide a major connectivity boost to Zanskar and adjoining areas, opening new opportunities for tourism, trade and economic development. The Shinkun La Tunnel is expected to further strengthen the reliability of this corridor by reducing dependence on high-altitude surface crossings.
The DGBR's visit reflects the continued emphasis of the Border Roads Organisation on accelerating strategically important infrastructure projects in the region. The progress of the NPD Road and Shinkun La Tunnel will remain closely watched as Ladakh continues to expand its road network and strengthen all-weather connectivity.
The BRO's sustained efforts in some of the country's most challenging terrains continue to underline its important role in connecting remote border and high-altitude areas while contributing to the overall development and strategic preparedness of the region.