Thursday, 05 August 2021 | PNS | New Delhi
It is at an altitude of over 19,000 ft
In a big boost to provide logistical support to the frontline troops at the India-China border on Ladakh, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has constructed a road at an altitude of more than 19,000 feet at Umlingla Pass, the highest road in the world, higher than the previous record of a road in Bolivia at 18,953 feet. The Umlingla Pass is now connected with a blacktop road.
The road has been constructed at an altitude higher than the Mount Everest Base Camps as the South Base Camp in Nepal whose altitude is 17,598 ft, while North Base Camp in Tibet is at 16,900 ft. The road has been constructed much above the altitude of Siachen Glacier which is at 17,700 ft. The Khardung La Pass in Leh is at an altitude of 17,582 ft.
Besides providing access to the local population and giving a boost to tourism, the road will provide much needed logistical back up to the troops guarding the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Stand-offs are on at three friction points at the LAC there for the last one and half years. The road will ensure that the troops get unhindered supply of weapons, ammunition, besides food and other items.
Giving details of the 54-km long road, officials said here on Wednesday the BRO has constructed and black-topped the highest motorable road in the world at 19,300 ft at Umlingla Pass in Eastern Ladakh.
The road now connects the important towns in Chumar sector of Eastern Ladakh. It will prove to be a boon to the local population as it offers an alternate direct route connecting Chisumle and Demchok from Leh. It will enhance the socio-economic condition and promote tourism in Ladakh.
