Jammu, Jul 20 (IANS): Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday inaugurated two bridges in Kathua and Samba districts of Jammu and Kashmir during his daylong visit to the state.
A defence statement said on Saturday, "Ushering in a new revolution in the connectivity of roads and bridges in border areas, Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 1000 metre-long Ujh bridge in Kathua district and 617.40 metre-long Basantar bridge in Samba district today.
"The event was attended by MoS PMO Jitendra Singh, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Director General Border Roads Lt Gen Harpal Singh and many other Army and Civil administration dignitaries.
The 1000 metre long Ujh bridge is the longest bridge constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and also has the distinction of using the technology of Pre Cast Segmental bridge with 60 metre spans. It has been constructed at a cost of around Rs. 50 crore. Basantar bridge has been constructed at a total cost of Rs 41.7 crore.
These bridges will provide smooth connectivity and are vital for the mobility of security forces in the border areas. They will be a big relief for the villagers of Kathua and Samba as road connectivity used to get affected during the monsoons.
Terming the construction of the Ujh and Basantpur bridges a great achievement by the BRO, the Defence Minister said that roads and bridges are the lifeline of any nation and play a vital role in the socio-economic development of far flung regions and population. He praised the BRO personnel for working in difficult areas, far away from their families and rendering commendable services through construction and maintenance of roads and bridges in border areas fulfilling the strategic need of the Indian Defence Forces. Reiterating the Central Government's commitment to the development of connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir area, he said that "our Prime Minister is regularly monitoring the progress of these projects and funds are being ensured accordingly".
"Jitender Singh also highlighted the development programme of Central government and PM Modi's steps for boosting connectivity in the state.
"Lt Gen Harpal Singh, DG Border Roads Organisation underlined the contribution of BRO to the nation in far flung areas of the country under extremely difficult and harsh conditions.