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The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has approved five significant road stretches, including four that pass through the Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). These roads are vital for both military and civilian purposes, especially the route leading to Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), India’s northernmost military outpost in Ladakh, home to the country’s highest airstrip.
Approved Road Projects
The NBWL has given its nod to several key road segments:
- Chushul-Lukung to Thakung Post Road: Part of the India-China Border Roads (ICBR)-III initiative, this route includes a 5.8 km upgrade through the Changthang cold desert sanctuary.
- Durbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DS-DBO) and Saser-Brangsa-Gapshan Route
- DS-DBO to Track Junction Road
- DBO to Karakoram Pass Road
- Leh-Chalunka Road Upgrade
A total of 35 km of new roads leading to DBO have been approved, including a crucial 7.75 km road from DS-DBO to Saser-Brangsa-Gapshan at an altitude of 17,000 feet.
Strategic Importance for Defence
These road projects represent a significant boost for the Ministry of Defence, which is enhancing infrastructure along the LAC following the 2020 clashes in the Galwan Valley. The newly approved route to DBO provides an alternative for rapid troop movement and logistical support, especially in light of China’s proximity.
The DS-DBO to Saser-Brangsa-Gapshan road, according to the Defence Ministry, is strategically crucial for regular troop patrols and quick reaction teams to deter incursions by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). This road, originating from Sasomo near the Nubra River in the Nubra Valley, connects to Saser Pass, which remains snow-covered for much of the year.
Road Connectivity and Troop Movement
The Leh-Chalunka road, connecting the Indus Valley with the Shyok Valley, crosses the Ladakh Range and remains the only motorable route across this range. It plays a crucial role in supporting both military operations and the civilian population in the Nubra Valley.
Environmental Considerations and Wildlife Protection
The NBWL has mandated that measures be taken to protect wildlife in the Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary. The Defence Ministry, which oversees these road projects, is required to ensure that animal passageways such as culverts and bridges are built to allow safe crossings for wildlife species such as Tibetan antelope, snow leopards, ibex, and others. The Ministry also needs to secure necessary permissions for forest land diversion.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the significance of Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO)?
a) It is a major wildlife sanctuary.
b) It is the northernmost military outpost of India.
c) It is a popular tourist destination.
d) It is a strategic waterway.
Answer: b) It is the northernmost military outpost of India. - How many kilometers of new roads leading to DBO have been approved?
a) 25 km
b) 35 km
c) 15 km
d) 50 km
Answer: b) 35 km - Which road is part of the India-China Border Roads (ICBR)-III initiative?
a) Leh-Chalunka road
b) DBO to Karakoram Pass road
c) Chushul-Lukung to Thakung post road
d) DS-DBO to Track Junction road
Answer: c) Chushul-Lukung to Thakung post road - What is the altitude of the DS-DBO to Saser-Brangsa-Gapshan road?
a) 15,000 ft
b) 10,000 ft
c) 17,000 ft
d) 20,000 ft
Answer: c) 17,000 ft - Which wildlife species is NOT mentioned as inhabiting the Karakoram sanctuary?
a) Snow leopard
b) Tibetan antelope
c) Royal Bengal tiger
d) Tibetan wolf
Answer: c) Royal Bengal tiger - What protective measures are being taken to protect wildlife along the approved road stretches?
a) Creating tunnels for animals
b) Constructing culverts and bridges for animal crossings
c) Diverting roads away from the sanctuary
d) Relocating wildlife species
Answer: b) Constructing culverts and bridges for animal crossings