Rajnath Singh inaugurates strategically important ‘Col Chewang Rinchen Setu’ in Ladakh

Ladakh: Giving a push to border infrastructure to effectively deal with any threats that undermine the peace and tranquility in the country, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday dedicated strategically important ‘Col Chewang Rinchen Setu’ constructed over River Shyok, connecting Durbuk and Daulat Beg Oldie in Eastern Ladakh.

“Keeping in view the current security situation, strengthening our borders is the need of the hour. Border area development is an integral part of our Government’s plan and this bridge is a part of that strategy,” Mr Singh said.
 
The Defence minister described ‘Col Chewang Rinchen Setu’ as a symbol of the government’s resolve of positive change and all-round development of the nation.
 
He said, the bridge not only connects Durbuk with Daulat Beg Oldie but also links the people of Ladakh and all interior areas of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country.
 
“Through initiatives like these, the people of this region will have the opportunity to become part of India’s growth story,” Mr Singh added.
 
Located between strategic Karakoram and Chang Chenmo ranges, the ‘Col Chewang Rinchen Setu’ is a 430-metre long bridge built at an altitude of about 15,000 feet using Micro Piling Technology. The construction has been completed in record time within 15 months.
 
On abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, the minister said it will put an end to terrorism and separatism which, since independence, has led to the killing of thousands of innocent people.
 
On creation of Ladakh a separate Union Territory, he said that the government has fulfilled the long-pending demand of the people, which will open new doors of development in the region.
 
“Like the rest of the country, Ladakh will now become a destination for investment. There will also be a boost in revenue generation and employment opportunities for local people”, he added.
 
Hailing BRO as an ‘inspirational and disciplined force’, Mr Singh lauded it for playing a leading role in the infrastructure development in far-flung areas in extremely tough and inhospitable terrain.
 
Terming connectivity as one of the most important aspects of development he said that the BRO is utilising over Rs 900 crore for the development of Ladakh.
 
Mr Singh expressed confidence that the region will soon become a hub for not only domestic but foreign tourists as well.
 
He complimented BRO for constructing 1,200 kms of roads in financial year 2018-19.
 
Earlier, he paid a tribute to Col Chewang Rinchen, saying that his courage and valour is a source of inspiration to one and all.
 
He also felicitated Col Rinchen’s daughter Phunsog Angmo for the contribution made by her father in the service of the nation.
 
Col Chewang Rinchen, born on November 11, 1931 at Sumur, Nubra Valley in Ladakh region, is known as the “Lion of Ladakh” for his extraordinary acts of courage in defending Leh and Partapur sector.
 
He is one of only six Armed Forces personnel to have been twice awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, the second highest Gallantry Award.