Project Vijayak of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 15th Raising Day in Kargil on Sunday, with officials announcing an expansion of infrastructure projects worth over Rs 1,200 crore as it enters its 16th year.
The plan includes widening of key roads, construction of new tunnels and bridges, and the adoption of advanced technologies such as geotextiles, improved surfacing, slope stabilisation, digital monitoring, and eco-friendly construction practices.
According to officials, these initiatives will enhance resilience, sustainability, and connectivity across Ladakh’s high-altitude frontiers, bolstering both strategic mobility and socio-economic development in the region.
Over the last 15 years, the Project has built and maintained more than 1,400 km of roads and 80 major bridges across Ladakh, including the record-setting reopening of the strategic Zojila Pass within just 31 days of its winter closure in April 2025, an unprecedented feat in high-altitude connectivity, a statement from the BRO spokesperson said.
The commemorative events to mark the 15th Raising Day celebrations included Sainik Sammelan, cultural programmes, prayers at Mandir and Gurudwara, and the inauguration of the Vijayak Memorial to honour fallen heroes.
A bike rally to the Drass War Memorial, painting competitions on Ladakhi culture, and community gatherings such as the Pagal Gymkhana and Barakhana were also held to bring together troops, families and locals.
Project Vijayak has also placed strong focus on welfare of its Casual Paid Labourers, who are the backbone of its operations. Welfare initiatives such as insulated shelters, improved sanitation, enhanced protective gear, winter clothing, and regular health camps have been introduced to ensure safety and well-being.
Raised in 2010, Project Vijayak was entrusted with the task of linking Ladakh’s remote valleys and forward areas with the national mainstream while fulfilling operational requirements of the Armed Forces. Its contributions have not only enhanced operational preparedness but also transformed connectivity and livelihoods for the people of Ladakh, the spokesperson added.