"Continuous border area development is part of our defence strategy" says Def Min Rajnath Singh

New Delhi, May 7: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called upon Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to further enhance its capability through optimum use to technology and strive to strengthen the infrastructure of the border areas at a faster pace. He was addressing all ranks of the BRO at the 63rd Raising Day of the Organization.

 

 

 

 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “The Chinese presence has increased in the Northern sector in the recent past. Due to their proficiency in construction in mountainous areas, they manage to reach different places very quickly. The BRO must continue to work in parallel and focus on increasing their capability with full use of technology." said the Raksha Mantri. He added that the govt is making all efforts to provide the required support to the BRO in this direction.

 

 

Singh mentioned about the recent announcement of increase of capital budget of BRO by 40 pc to Rs. 3,500 Cr in Financial Year 2022-23, reiterating the govt's commitment to the country's security and development of border areas. He assured the BRO of not just budgetary, but all possible support in this endeavor.

 

 

 

 

Underlining the importance of roads, bridges and tunnels in the progress of a nation, Rajnath Singh said the projects completed by the BRO have enhanced the operational preparedness of the Armed Forces and improved the socio-economic conditions of the people living in far-flung areas. “Infrastructure development in border areas is an indicator of the Government’s unwavering commitment to build a strong, secure and self-reliant ‘New India’ as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi,” said Rajnath Singh.

 

 

In 2021-22, a total of 102 infrastructure projects - 87 bridges and 15 roads - were completed by the BRO - the most in a single year. This included construction of world’s longest highway tunnel, above 10,000 feet Atal Tunnel, Rohtang and world highest motorable road over Umling La in Eastern Ladakh. For the first time in the history of the BRO, women officers were given the command of Units, with three road construction companies (RCCs) being currently commanded by them. It also created the first-ever All Women RCC in Joshimath, Uttarakhand.