PM Modi Unveils ₹3,350 Crore Development Projects in Ladakh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates and dedicates five transformational development projects worth approximately ₹3,350 crore in Ladakh. Designed to boost regional connectivity, fortify energy infrastructure, protect ancient cultural heritage, and solve seasonal water shortages, these strategic initiatives represent a major leap forward for the Union Territory.

New Geothermal Passenger Terminal at Leh Airport (₹640 Cr.)

Prime Minister Modi inaugurates the state-of-the-art passenger terminal building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. Built at an investment of ₹640 crore, the massive 23,800-square-metre facility expands airport capacity to handle up to 35 lakh passengers annually.

Engineered specifically for Ladakh's extreme environment, the terminal incorporates geothermal energy systems to optimize temperature control while minimizing its carbon footprint. The architectural design harmoniously integrates modern passenger amenities with traditional Ladakhi cultural motifs, providing a world-class gateway that links the high-altitude region to the rest of India.

Strategic 298-km Nimmu–Padum–Darcha Road

A major highlight of the unveiling is the dedication of the 298-km Nimmu–Padum–Darcha Road, constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Traversing the remote Zanskar Valley and crossing high-altitude passes like Shinkun La, this alternative corridor connects Nimmu in Leh directly with Darcha in Himachal Pradesh.

Key Strategic Benefits:

• All-Weather Alternative Route: Reduces reliance on the vulnerable Srinagar–Leh and Manali–Leh highways.
• Enhanced Armed Forces Mobility: Improves troop deployment efficiency and logistical support near border areas.
• Socio-Economic Integration: Grants remote Zanskar residents reliable access to healthcare, education, regional markets, and essential services.

Hanu Hydroelectric & Transmission Projects Boost Energy Security

To harness Ladakh's clean energy potential and ensure grid stability, the Prime Minister unveils two key power projects:

• 9 MW Hanu Small Hydroelectric Project: Captures local run-of-the-river power generation.
• 66 kV Double-Circuit Dah-Hanu-Khaltsi Transmission Line: Enhances power evacuation capabilities across remote settlements.

These energy solutions make Ladakh’s electrical grid more resilient, providing dependable power to households, businesses, and defense outposts.

India’s First Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat

Highlighting Ladakh’s rich archaeological heritage, PM Modi inaugurates India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park at Sindhu Ghat in Leh. Ladakh houses hundreds of prehistoric rock art sites displaying wildlife, human figures, and ancient symbolic motifs. The dedicated park safeguards these vulnerable prehistoric remains while promoting responsible, heritage-focused eco-tourism.

Project Him Sarovar: 40 Water Bodies to Secure Agricultural Livelihoods

Under Project Him Sarovar—aligned with the national Mission Amrit Sarovar initiative—the Prime Minister dedicates 40 newly constructed water bodies across 40 Ladakhi villages.

Because glacial runoff and snowmelt often do not align with agricultural sowing cycles, local farmers frequently face severe early-season water scarcity. Project Him Sarovar captures excess snowmelt during peak thaw periods and stores it for deployment during critical sowing windows, securing agricultural livelihoods and bolstering regional water security.