In a landmark announcement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has unveiled the construction of the Paddar-Zanskar road, a major infrastructure project poised to bolster strategic border infrastructure and rejuvenate cultural, tourism, and economic links between the regions of Zanskar, Paddar, and Pangi.
Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, the former Member of Parliament from Ladakh, has expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the people of Ladakh, particularly those from Zanskar, Paddar, and Pangi Valley, for the pivotal announcement made by Shah. The proposed road, which has been long awaited, is set to be a transformative development for the region.
Namgyal highlighted that the Paddar-Zanskar road is more than just a connectivity project; it is a lifeline that will bridge Ladakh and the Paddar region, extending further into Pangi Valley in Himachal Pradesh. “This road will not only enhance local connectivity but will also play a crucial role in strengthening national security along India’s borders with China and Pakistan. These regions have witnessed several conflicts over the years, including wars in 1948, 1962, 1965, 1971, and 1999, as well as the Galwan skirmish in 2020,” Namgyal stated. He emphasized that the road will revitalize cultural and historical ties, unlocking significant tourism potential and economic growth for Ladakh, Paddar, and Pangi.
Namgyal had previously championed the cause for this road during a Parliament session on December 21, 2022, proposing two potential routes for its construction: a 45 km route via Kishtwar-Atholi-Machail-Soomchan-Zongkhul and an 80 km route via Kishtwar-Atholi-Machail-Dangail-Pot La-Bardan/Haftal, which would directly connect Ladakh with Jammu.
Once completed, the road will serve as the shortest link between the Northern Command and the Pathankot Airforce and Military Station, reducing the distance by approximately 150 km. Historically, this route holds strategic importance as it was utilized by the renowned Dogra General Zorawar Singh during his campaigns in Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Tibet in the 1830s. The road will also offer a safer and more secure passage through the Paddar Sub-Division, circumventing areas prone to anti-national activities.
As part of the broader development plan, Namgyal also noted the recent sanctioning of a 31 km road from Block Headquarters Paddar to Lossani Machail Paddar under PMGSY Phase 1 and Phase 2, with an allocated budget of Rs 46.42 crore. Additionally, the proposed construction of an 8 km tunnel from Lossani to Dangail via Dharlong Nallah and Chamo Chohar will further enhance connectivity, establishing a direct link between Paddar and Zanskar.
“This project is of paramount importance not only for national security but also for the socio-economic upliftment of the region. Enhanced connectivity will stimulate tourism, invigorate local economies, and foster a deeper sense of unity among the people of Paddar, Pangi, and Ladakh. We extend our sincere gratitude to Home Minister Amit Shah and the Modi Government for their unwavering commitment to the progress and security of our region,” Namgyal concluded.
