Commissioner/Secretary Ajeet Kumar Sahu inspects the road to review the work progress

Kargil, July 03, 2023: Commissioner/Secretary Ajeet Kumar Sahu, UT Ladakh, on Sunday conducted a comprehensive review of the ongoing construction of the Kargil-Zanskar National Highway (NH-301).

The meeting, held at the Conference Hall, Baroo, witnessed discussions on the significant physical achievements and compensation disbursement status. The development of this vital infrastructure project is aimed at improving connectivity and fostering economic growth in the region.

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Commissioner/Secretary Sahu, accompanied by NHIDCL officers, district officials, and SDMs, conducted an extensive tour of the road from Zanskar to Kargil prior to the meeting. The inspection allowed for firsthand assessment of the progress and identified areas for expedited work. Sahu emphasized the need for NHIDCL to accelerate construction in areas where clear encumbrance-free corridors are available, ensuring efficient project implementation.

During the meeting, Commissioner/Secretary Sahu highlighted the remarkable achievement of completing the dense bituminous macadam (DBM) on 60 km of the 239 km stretch. This significant milestone signifies substantial progress towards the road’s completion. The current year’s target is to complete the premature DBM on 110 km, demonstrating the commitment to timely project delivery.

Addressing the critical aspect of compensation disbursement, GM NHIDCL informed that Rs. 180 crore has already been released to the DC Kargil against compensation. DC informed that the final award amounting to Rs. 176.84 crore has been issued, and a majority of eligible landowners have received their rightful compensation.

To expedite the remaining disbursements, Commissioner/Secretary Sahu instructed the Deputy Commissioner to schedule joint camps with banks and landowners. This proactive approach aims to ensure that NHIDCL has unimpeded access to the remaining stretches for seamless construction activities.

Furthermore, Sahu emphasized the significance of environmental conservation during the road’s development. He instructed NHIDCL to conduct extensive plantation along the route, ensuring the plantation of at least triple the number of uprooted plants.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of proper disposal of mulba (debris) and directed officials to ensure the effective dressing of areas where debris is dumped. These measures contribute to a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing journey for the passengers, harmonizing infrastructure development with ecological preservation.

The completion of the Kargil-Zanskar National Highway (NH-301) is a crucial step towards enhancing connectivity and promoting socio-economic progress in the region.

Commissioner/Secretary Ajeet Kumar Sahu told that the UT Administration is fully committed to timely and efficient project implementation. The construction of this vital infrastructure aligns with the Ladakh’s Vision 2047 of a developed and connected Ladakh, further bolstering the Union Territory’s growth trajectory in line with inclusive development.