India is working to improve road infrastructure near Line of Actual Control. (File)
India is working to upgrade road accessibility up to the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, a move which comes in the backdrop of the construction of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) through the Karakoram mountain range, one of the toughest terrains in the world.
The Border Roads Organisation, which takes care of road construction in strategic locations, had approached the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) seeking suggestions for upgrading the border roads. Maintaining infrastructure is a challenge in the area -- especially the 55 km stretch between Sasoma and Saser Brangsa in Ladakh -- because of hostile terrain and tough weather conditions.
"Of the 55 km stretch, 10 km is affected due to hostile terrain and tough weather conditions. The road id supposed to be short, but tough as it is also shut for nearly seven months due to frequent landslides, harsh winters and heavy snow," said a senior government official adding that the project was being monitored at the PMO level.
The road from Sasoma to Saser Brangsa is also considered as an alternative route to the LAC.
The CRRI, which works under the aegis of the Ministry of Science and Technology, specializes in road research and has helped develop road technology for several states and local bodies.
For upgrading the roads leading to the LAC, the CRRI undertook topographical surveys of the area using radar and other technologies.
"We have advised both short and long-term measures for helping build and maintain mountain roads, but it is up to the BRO to take a final call," Director CRRI Satish Chandra said today.
One of the recommendations, according to Mr Chandra, is to make snow sheds that can save the road. Additionally, as a longer term measure, it has also suggested realigning some roads to prevent damage from landslides every season.