Five Strategic Roads In Ladakh Get Wildlife Clearance, To Strengthen India’s Defence At LAC

In a significant development for India's strategic infrastructure, the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has cleared five strategic road projects in Ladakh.

Four of these roads will pass through the Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary, located along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Among the key stretches is the route to Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), India’s northernmost military outpost and the site of its highest airstrip.

The roadways, which will link key military locations and outposts, are part of ongoing efforts to improve logistical support and troop mobility in the aftermath of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes between Indian and Chinese forces.

The Five Road Projects

Chushul-Lukung to Thakung Post: This 5.8 km-long road will be upgraded as part of the India-China Border Roads (ICBR)-III project. It passes through the Changthang cold desert sanctuary, offering vital connectivity to military posts along the border.

Durbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DS-DBO) to Saser-Brangsa-Gapshan: At a length of 7.75 km, this road will be built at an altitude of 17,000 feet. This stretch is crucial for troop mobility and logistical support, particularly in the high-altitude terrain where military presence is essential.

DS-DBO to Track Junction: Another strategically important route, this road will enhance connectivity for patrolling units and quick reaction teams.

Leh-Chalunka Road Upgradation: This road, passing over the Ladakh range, connects the Indus Valley with the Shyok Valley. It serves as the only motorable road across the Ladakh range, playing a critical role in supporting both military operations and the local civilian population in the Nubra Valley.

As per Business Standard report, in total 35 km of road have been cleared for construction along the new route to DBO, which runs parallel to the LAC. The newly approved routes will provide alternatives to the existing DS-DBO road, allowing faster movement of troops and military assets to the northern front.

Strategic Importance

The significance of these road projects cannot be understated, particularly in the context of the ongoing tensions with China along the LAC. Since the 2020 Galwan clashes, India has ramped up efforts to improve infrastructure in border areas to counter Chinese military presence.

The Ministry of Defence has stressed the importance of these roads for tactical and strategic purposes. The new routes will enable faster deployment of patrols and quick reaction teams, ensuring that the Indian Army can maintain a strong presence along the LAC.

The roads will also facilitate the movement of logistics and supplies in a region where terrain and weather conditions make transportation challenging.

The DS-DBO to Saser-Brangsa-Gapshan link road is particularly noteworthy, as it is located at a tactical location in Sub-Sector North. Controlling this area is crucial for maintaining India’s border posture and preventing any potential transgressions by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA).