The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is set to commence the construction of a 40-km road stretch from Karcham to Chitkul via Sangla in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, which shares a border with China. Chitkul, known as the highest village in the Baspa Valley at an elevation of 11,319 feet, has gained popularity as a tourist destination.
State revenue and tribal development minister, Jagat Singh Negi, announced that the project is expected to significantly boost the local economy and improve connectivity in the region. "The local population is eagerly awaiting the completion of the project. With the BRO taking over, it is expected that the work will be completed expeditiously," Negi stated.
Previously, the state's public works department was responsible for the project, but it has now been handed over to the BRO, with formalities being finalized between the central and Himachal Pradesh governments. The current road stretch requires widening and metalling, particularly near Karcham, which is home to a 1500MW power project.
The road construction will not only facilitate faster movement for the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to the border but also improve access for local residents. The ITBP post at Dumti, located 20km ahead of Chitkul, offers a vantage point with views of the China border.
Last year, Union minister RK Singh accompanied Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to Nalsari on the Tibet border, where they assured residents that a central public sector undertaking would adopt Chitkul and help develop it into a vibrant village.
Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts share a 240-km border with China, including an 80-km stretch from Chumar in Lahaul and Spiti and a 160-km stretch from Daroti to Mumri Dogri in Kinnaur. The border areas are manned by the ITBP and the army, with a check post near Nagsli, 3km ahead of Chitkul, where jawans monitor the movement of people.
The road project, once completed, is expected to provide significant benefits for both security forces and the local population, enhancing both security and economic development in the region.
