New Delhi: The Indian government, busy strengthening the country’s borders, has now turned to Pakistan after China. For the first time, the government has planned to come so close to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). It intends to build a 44-km-long highway near the LoC and PoK. The government has started work on a challenging project in the difficult mountainous region of Jammu and Kashmir. Under this, a new 44-km-long road will be built through the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary. This road will help connect two remote border posts located on the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The Border Roads Organization (BRO) has started the process of completing this project in the next three years at a cost of about Rs 288 crore. For the first time, this road will go from Cheema to Lech Nala, Baramulla and will further connect with the army’s Garda Legli Post and Sarson Post. According to CNN-News18, the Ministry of Defense and the Highway Authority are working at a fast pace.
The route will pass through steep hills and snow

The proposed road is located on an important strategic axis, which will pass through steep hills and thick snow. There is no road from Cheema to Lech Nala and from Garda Legli Post to Sarson Post. If there is one, it is in very bad condition. Due to the steep slopes, it is not suitable for the movement of army vehicles. There is no population in this part of the project and the new road can easily provide logistical support to the troops deployed at these border posts.
The army’s ammunition will reach without any hindrance

Since a large number of troops have been deployed at various border posts along the road, this road will provide all-weather connectivity along with logistical support and security. The development of this route will increase the accessibility of troops, equipment and vehicles to forward posts along the LoC. The development of the road will increase safety, reduce travel time and reduce the cost of using vehicles.
The route will pass through Gulmarg Sanctuary

There is only one route for the construction of this project, which passes through the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is spread over 180 square kilometers. Established in 1987, the sanctuary is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan brown bears, musk deer and a variety of birds. The sanctuary ranges in altitude from 2,400 to 4,300 meters, ranging from dense forests to alpine meadows. It is located just 50 kilometers from Srinagar.