Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Marks 65th Raising Day

May 8, 2024

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 65th Raising Day recently, with an emphasis on embracing modern technology and techniques to accelerate project completions.

About Border Roads Organisation (BRO)

BRO is responsible for developing and maintaining road networks in India’s border areas. Established on May 7, 1960, it operates under the Ministry of Defence. BRO plays a crucial role in the strategic infrastructure of India, contributing to national security and economic development in remote regions. It constructs and maintains roads, bridges, and airfields, particularly in challenging terrains like the Himalayas. BRO’s work facilitates the movement of armed forces and also boosts connectivity to enhance the lives of border communities.

Since its inception, BRO has constructed over 62,214 km of roads, 1,005 bridges, seven tunnels, and 21 airfields, not only within Indian borders but also in friendly nations like Bhutan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.

Impact of BRO’s Work on National Security and Connectivity

The organisation has played an instrumental role in rescue and relief operations, such as during the Silkyara tunnel collapse and the Sikkim floods. Its efforts are also directed towards the Vibrant Villages Programme, aiming at the comprehensive development of border villages. The recent push for increased budgetary allocations has further enabled the BRO to scale up its operations significantly, enhancing India’s strategic infrastructure and operational readiness.

Empowerment and Inclusivity at BRO

Promoting gender equality and inclusivity remains a core ethos of the BRO. It has been proactive in empowering women by positioning them in key roles. Notable examples include Col Ponung Doming and Assistant Executive Engineer Nikita Chaudhary, who have led critical projects contributing to the organisational goals.

Some Notable Projects of BRO

Here are some of the most notable projects undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation in India:

Atal Tunnel (Rohtang Tunnel): The world’s longest highway tunnel (9.02 km) built at an altitude of 3,000 meters in Himachal Pradesh, providing all-weather connectivity between Manali and Lahaul-Spiti.
Delaram-Zaranj Highway: A 218 km road constructed in Afghanistan, connecting Delaram to Zaranj near the Iranian border, which was completed in 2009.
Dhola-Sadiya Bridge: India’s longest river bridge (9.15 km) constructed over the Lohit River in Assam, connecting Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Umling La Pass: The world’s highest motorable road constructed at an altitude of 19,300 feet in Eastern Ladakh, surpassing the previous record held by the Khardung La Pass.
Bilafond La Pass: A high-altitude mountain pass in Ladakh, where BRO constructed a motorable road at an altitude of 17,500 feet.
Sela Tunnel: A 12.04 km long tunnel under construction in Arunachal Pradesh, which will provide all-weather connectivity to Tawang and reduce travel time.
Kailash-Mansarovar Road: BRO constructed a motorable road up to Lipulekh Pass (17,060 feet) near the India-China border, connecting the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage site.
Tazing Lhamo Lake Road: A high-altitude road constructed near Tso Lhamo Lake in North Sikkim at an altitude of 17,000 feet.
Darcha-Padum-Nimu Road: A 290 km long road connecting Darcha in Himachal Pradesh to Nimu in Ladakh, which is currently under construction and will provide an alternative route to Leh.
Indo-China Border Roads: BRO has been constructing and maintaining a network of strategic roads along the India-China border in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh to enhance border connectivity and defense preparedness.

The Upcoming Project – Shinkun La Tunnel

A significant forthcoming project is the Shinkun La Tunnel, which upon completion will be the world’s highest tunnel, situated at 15,800 ft and surpassing China’s Mila Tunnel. Spanning 4.10 km, this tunnel aims to enhance connectivity between the Ladakh and Lahaul and Spiti regions.

Looking Ahead: Future Directions for BRO

Under the current leadership, the BRO is set to focus more on integrating advanced technologies and mechanisation in its operations. This strategic shift is anticipated to reduce human effort, enhance efficiency, and maintain safety in project execution. This approach will ensure the timely completion of projects while continuing to uphold the BRO’s legacy of ‘Connecting Places, Connecting People’.

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