Leh: A strategically important road, which connects Leh to the Pangong Lake, was inaugurated here Tuesday. The opening of the road was done by Ladakh MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal. He said that the stretch passing through the Kela Pass at 18,600 feet will be world’s highest motorable way.
The road has been constructed by the 58 Engineer Regiment of the Indian Army. It will reduce 41-km of travel from Leh (Zingral to Tangtse) to the picturesque Pangong Lake crossing the Kela Pass, the Lok Sabha member said.
“The road, which was inaugurated today, will be the world’s highest motorable road for the general public at a height of 18,600 feet. Up till now, the Khardungla Pass was the world’s highest motorable road for the general public at a height of 18,380 feet,” Namgyal said.
Namgyal pointed out that the road will play a major role in the future to boost the socio-economic status of local residents People of the Lalok region of Ladakh will benefit the most as the road will facilitate tourism.
“Tourists will be able to see the world’s highest motorable road and rare medicinal plants. They will be able to participate in snow sport activities, see nomadic livestock, lakes and other attractions,” Namgyal said.
During the inaugural function, held at the Kela Top, at an altitude of 18,600 feet, the lawmaker applauded the dedication of the Indian Army, especially the 58 Engineer Regiment, for constructing the road. He also highlighted the seriousness of the government towards creating border infrastructure, especially roads and bridges.
The road was inaugurated in presence of Lt Gen PGK Menon, General Officer Commanding 14th Corp, Tashi Namgyal Yakzee and Stanzin Chosphel, Executive Councillors, Ven. Lama Konchok Tsephel, Councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, among others.