Border Roads Organisation: Celebrating 65 Years of Service

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 65th foundation day on May 7, 2024. This day marked a significant milestone in India's infrastructural and strategic development. To commemorate the occasion, a grand event was held in New Delhi, presided over by the Defence Secretary, Mr. Giridhar Aramane. The celebration highlighted the achievements and ongoing projects of the BRO, reinforcing its pivotal role in maintaining and constructing roads and other infrastructure in challenging terrains.

Border Roads Organisation: Celebrating 65 Years of Service

Achievements of the BRO

The BRO has been instrumental in the construction and maintenance of critical infrastructure in some of the most challenging geographical locations. Since its establishment in 1960, the organisation has built over 62,214 kilometers of roads, 1,005 bridges, six tunnels, and 21 airfields in India and neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. The organisation's commitment to the motto "In the Service of Our Great Mountains - High Peaks" demonstrates its dedication to developing infrastructure in remote and difficult-to-reach areas.

The Defence Secretary lauded the BRO's efforts during the recent disasters, such as the Sikkim floods and the collapse of the Sylkyara Tunnel. The rescue operations and humanitarian efforts undertaken by the BRO during these crises were commendable. The event also highlighted the vibrant and energetic spirit of the organisation, emphasizing its role in national security and strategic infrastructure development.

Ongoing and Upcoming Projects

Among the ongoing projects, the Se La Tunnel construction in Arunachal Pradesh stands out. This ambitious project, which involves building a road on the Bhalukpong-Dirang-Tawang axis, is set to significantly improve connectivity in the region. The successful completion of this project will facilitate better movement for the military and civilians alike, especially in an area prone to harsh weather conditions.

Another key project in the pipeline is the construction of the Shinku La Tunnel, a 4.10-kilometre-long tunnel. Once completed, this tunnel will become the world's highest, surpassing China's existing tunnel at 15,590 feet. This ambitious endeavour demonstrates the BRO's engineering prowess and commitment to enhancing connectivity in the remotest parts of India.

The BRO's Legacy and Vision

The BRO's vision and legacy are rooted in its foundation by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1960. The goal was to accelerate the development of road infrastructure in India's northern and northeastern border regions. Under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, the BRO has played a crucial role in ensuring India's strategic readiness.

The leadership of the BRO has always been with military personnel, ensuring that the organisation's objectives align with national security goals. The current Director-General of the BRO is Lt. Gen. Raghu Sritharan, whose leadership has been pivotal in steering the organisation towards its objectives. The event celebrating the BRO's 65th foundation day highlighted the organisation's commitment to its foundational principles while embracing new challenges with innovation and determination.

Notable Personalities and Achievements

During the celebration, the Defence Secretary acknowledged the contributions of various individuals within the BRO. Special recognition was given to Assistant Executive Engineer (Civil) Smita Choudhary, who played a crucial role in completing the Se La Tunnel project. Her efforts underscore the importance of diversity and inclusion within the organisation, demonstrating that excellence knows no gender.

The BRO's commitment to infrastructure development extends beyond roads and tunnels. The organisation has also been involved in community-building projects, such as free medical camps under Project Dristi. These initiatives highlight the organisation's dedication to supporting the communities in which it operates, reinforcing its role as a key player in national development.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

As the BRO celebrates 65 years of service, the organisation looks forward to a future filled with new challenges and opportunities. Its ongoing and upcoming projects demonstrate a commitment to improving infrastructure in India's most remote and challenging regions. With a rich legacy and a clear vision, the BRO is poised to continue playing a vital role in India's strategic and infrastructural development.