"Col Chewang Rinchen Setu" : A Symbol of Bridgopment in New Ladakh India

"Col Chewang Rinchen Setu" : A Symbol of  Bridgopment in New Ladakh India

(All the images are subject to IPR)

The 1400 ft long bridge on Shyok river is situated in Sub- Sector North at 14,650 ft. It was christened after 'Lion of Ladakh' Col Chewang Rinchen and dedicated to the nation in his memory on 21st October 2019 in a ceremony held near the bridge. The bridge was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the presence of Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. Daughter Dr Phunsog Angmo  and granddaughter of the late highly decorated army officer, who was awarded Maha Vir Chakra twice, also attended the ceremony.

River Indus in Amazing Ladakh
Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

This is the India's highest altitude all weather permanent bridge, located in eastern Ladakh at nearly 45 km from the country's border with China, to bolster border infrastructure to effectively deal with any threat.

The bridge is strategically located on the 255 km Darbuk-Shayok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DSDBO) section of the road between Leh and Karakoram Pass. Border Roads Organization has built this bridge within record time of 15 months and  now reducing time of travel by nearly half. For the first time in India, 'Micropiling  Technique' has been used to build a bridge.

"Col Chewang Rinchen Setu"

Image Courtesy : swarajyamag.com

Col Chewang Rinchen was born on 11th November 1931 in Sumur village, Nubra valley in Ladakh region, and is known as 'Lion of Ladakh' for his extraordinary courage in defending Leh and Partapur sector.

"Col Chewang Rinchen Setu"  will not only strengthen  our strategic borders but help in development of the region - bridgopment  that is bridge + development.

Magnetic Hill in Amazing Leh Ladakh
Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

It is to be mentioned here that now structures such as bridges are not named after politicians of a single family but dedicated to unsung hero/heroes of the region who has made extraordinary contribution to the development of the region or country as a whole. These types of initiatives  must be encouraged and appreciated.