Project Vijayak (BRO) Celebrates 15th Raising Day In Kargil With Rs 1,200 Cr Infrastructure Push

NEW DELHI : Project Vijayak of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on sunday celebrated its 15th Raising Day at Kargil, Ladakh, expanding infrastructure projects worth over Rs 1,200 crore as it enters its 16th year.
Looking ahead, the Rs 1,200 crore plan includes widening of key roads, construction of new tunnels and bridges, and adoption of cutting-edge technologies like geotextiles, advanced surfacing, slope stabilisation, digital monitoring and eco-friendly construction practices.
These initiatives will further strengthen resilience, sustainability and connectivity in Ladakh’s high-altitude frontiers, a Defence Ministry statement said.The milestone occasion marked a journey of service, resilience and engineering excellence in some of the most challenging terrain in the world. 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 this year, an unprecedented feat in high-altitude connectivity.
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 15th Raising Day celebrations reflected both tradition and pride. The commemorative events included a 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 brought together troops, families and locals in a spirit of unity.
Project Vijayak has also placed strong focus on the welfare of its casually 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.
As it enters its 16th year, Project Vijayak continues to stand as a symbol of service and pride, acting as a lifeline for the Armed Forces and the local population alike, and embodying BRO’s motto of forging connectivity in the nation’s toughest terrains. (Agencies)