Rajnath Singh reviews BRO projects, stresses border infrastructure for national security
New Delhi, March 25. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on March 25 chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence to review the performance and future plans of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), emphasising the critical role of border infrastructure in strengthening national security and operational preparedness.
The meeting, held in the national capital, saw detailed discussions on defence infrastructure, connectivity projects and strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing India’s border management capabilities.
Addressing the committee, Singh highlighted the importance of robust infrastructure along India’s frontiers, noting that the BRO is playing a key role in building an integrated ecosystem that supports national security, regional development and connectivity. He lauded the organisation’s work in improving access in the Northeast and in areas affected by left-wing extremism, saying these efforts have not only enhanced troop mobility but also transformed the lives of local communities.
The Defence Minister also pointed out that the BRO has been tasked with developing infrastructure along the India-Myanmar border, covering nearly 1,600 km, which is expected to significantly strengthen border management.
The committee reviewed progress under the Border Roads Development Programme 2023-28, which involves more than 1,000 projects, including construction, upgradation and maintenance of roads and related infrastructure. Singh said the initiative is ensuring all-weather connectivity even in remote and high-altitude areas, thereby boosting defence preparedness.
Highlighting the increasing use of technology, he said the BRO is adopting modern construction methods, including high-altitude equipment, modular bridges and precast technologies, leading to improved quality and faster execution of projects. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the organisation through enhanced budgetary support, advanced equipment and welfare measures for its personnel.
During the meeting, Director General Border Roads, Harpal Singh, presented a comprehensive overview of the BRO’s achievements, operational challenges and its role in disaster response. He noted that since its establishment in 1960, the BRO has constructed over 64,000 km of roads, 1,179 bridges, 22 airfields and seven tunnels, significantly improving connectivity and operational readiness in border regions.
The committee was also informed about the organisation’s contributions to socio-economic development in border areas and its role in advancing the national vision of a developed India by 2047. The BRO’s overseas projects in countries such as Afghanistan, Bhutan, Myanmar and Tajikistan were also highlighted.
Singh underscored the challenges faced by the BRO, including limited working seasons, land acquisition hurdles and environmental clearances, while noting the organisation’s focus on capacity building and technological adoption to deliver faster and more sustainable infrastructure.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat, and other senior officials.
