New Delhi/Leh, October 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated five major development projects worth Rs 3,350 crore in Ladakh, focusing on improved connectivity, energy infrastructure, cultural heritage conservation and water security in the Union Territory.
Addressing the gathering virtually, Modi said the projects would mark another milestone in Ladakh’s development, making travel easier, improving electricity facilities, increasing water availability and strengthening the preservation of its ancient heritage.
The Prime Minister also praised the enthusiasm of people in Zanskar, recalling how residents waved the Tricolour despite snowfall in the region.
Among the major projects inaugurated was the new passenger terminal building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, constructed at a cost of Rs 640 crore. Spread across 23,800 square metres, the modern facility is designed to handle 35 lakh passengers annually, up from the airport’s existing capacity of 10 lakh.
The terminal incorporates geothermal energy to improve energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint, an important consideration for Ladakh’s ecologically sensitive environment.
Modi also dedicated the 298-km Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road to the nation. Built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the route connects Nimmu in Leh with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh through the remote Zanskar Valley. It provides an alternative corridor to Ladakh, supplementing the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways.
To strengthen energy infrastructure and harness the region’s renewable energy potential, the Prime Minister inaugurated the 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project and the 66 kV double-circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line.
He also inaugurated India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh to protect the region’s ancient archaeological heritage.
In addition, 40 water bodies developed across 40 villages under Project Him Sarovar are part of efforts to address Ladakh’s water conservation challenges, in line with the objectives of Mission Amrit Sarovar.
The projects are expected to support regional development while addressing the distinctive geographical, climatic and environmental challenges faced by Ladakh.
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