Border Roads Organisation (BRO has constructed a motorable road across Mig La Pass in eastern Ladakh at 19,400 feet (5,913 metres), claiming the title of the world's highest such route and surpassing its own previous record.
The new road, part of the Likaru-Mig La-Fukche alignment, connects the Hanle region with Fukche village near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Project Himank, led by Brigadier Vishal Srivastava, completed the construction, marking the achievement with a flag-hoisting ceremony featuring the Indian national flag and the BRO flag at the windswept pass.
Mig La Pass now stands taller than Mount Everest's South Base Camp in Nepal, which sits at 17,598 feet, and the North Base Camp in Tibet at 16,900 feet. The previous record-holder, Umling La, reaches 19,024 feet.
The Indian Army announced the accomplishment on X, emphasizing both the engineering feat and its significance for communities along the border.
ADG PI - Indian Army tweeted: "#BRO creates history again! Border Roads Organisation #BRO has once again created history as Project Himank constructed the world's highest motorable road at Mig La Pass (19,400 ft) in #Ladakh surpassing its own Guinness World Record set at Umling La (19,024 ft). The newly built Likaru–Mig La–Fukche road holds immense strategic significance as the third vital axis from Hanle to Fukche, while also boosting tourism in #Ladakh and upliftment of India's First Villages. A shining testament to the indomitable spirit, engineering excellence & unwavering dedication of the #BRO in #NationBuilding."
Building at such heights presents extraordinary challenges. Temperatures fall well below freezing, oxygen levels drop to nearly half of sea-level concentrations, and the landscape features loose soil and icy winds. The engineering team pushed through snowstorms and volatile weather conditions, navigating both technical obstacles and physical strain.
According to the BRO, the new road will improve conditions for residents of Hanle and Fukche, areas frequently cut off during severe winter months. The route is anticipated to provide better year-round connectivity, reduce travel times, and facilitate the transport of essential supplies.
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