en.Wedoany.com Reported - The central government of India has approved the construction of the Leh Ring Road (Southern Alignment) in the Union Territory of Ladakh, with a project budget of Rs 9,905.1 million. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced the decision on Wednesday. The project aims to improve surface transport connectivity around Leh and provide an alternative route to the existing urban corridor.

The project will construct a two-lane bidirectional road (with hard shoulders), starting from NH-01 near Phyang village (adjacent to the HPCL plant) and ending at the Upshi section of the Leh-Manali Highway (NH-03). According to the ministry, the design will consider the common vehicular traffic demands in the region and strive to ensure year-round accessibility. Route planning and engineering considerations will reflect the local terrain and typical climatic conditions of high-altitude areas.

Officials stated that the ring road is expected to alleviate traffic congestion within Leh town, reduce pressure on existing routes, and enhance safety for commuters and commercial transport. The project will also support tourism and local businesses by providing a more reliable corridor for the transport of goods and services. Planners noted that improved peripheral connectivity will help disperse traffic flow and enhance accessibility to surrounding settlements.

The central government's approval initiates the processes for a detailed project report, necessary land acquisition, and statutory clearances, followed by tendering and construction. Implementation will be coordinated by the ministry in conjunction with relevant road authorities and local administrative bodies to ensure compliance with environmental and logistical constraints. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen surface infrastructure in the Himalayan region and enhance the resilience of transport corridors.