BRO plans Rs 1,152 crore infrastructure push in Sikkim under 'Project Swastik'

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has planned infrastructure projects worth Rs 1,152.66 crore in the north-eastern state of Sikkim, including the construction of the Western Sikkim Highway and National Highways 310A and 310AG.

These initiatives, undertaken by BRO’s Project Swastik, aim to enhance road connectivity, enable faster mobilisation of the Armed Forces, and incorporate advanced technologies such as geotextiles, slope stabilisation, avalanche mitigation, and eco-friendly construction methods to boost resilience and reduce maintenance costs.

Project Swastik, which commemorated it's 65th Raising Day on Wednesday, has since its establishment in 1960, constructed and maintained over 1,412 km of roads and 80 major bridges, a defence spokesperson said.

In the last decade alone, the project completed more than 350 km of roads, 26 bridges and one tunnel ensuring year-round connectivity to remote valleys and forward areas while supporting the operational requirements of the Armed Forces. 

The project has also successfully overcome natural disasters such as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), cloudbursts, and floods in the Teesta River.

As part of the celebrations, a wreath-laying ceremony was held at the Swastik Memorial, followed by a Sainik Sammelan, Barakhana, cultural programs and a Swastik Mela, fostering camaraderie among officers, personnel and their families. 

In line with its commitment to the welfare of its workforce, Project Swastik also launched new initiatives for Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs), including upgraded habitats, provision of protective gear, and health camps.