Sentinel of the Frontiers: Border Roads Organisation’s Strategic Infrastructure for UPSC
Q. With reference to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), consider the following statements:
1. The BRO functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
2. 'Project DANTAK' is an overseas mission of the BRO aimed at infrastructure development in Bhutan.
3. The Atal Tunnel is the world's longest highway tunnel located above an altitude of 10,000 feet.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Context
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has reached a historic milestone, recording its highest-ever expenditure of ₹16,690 crore in FY 2024–25. With an ambitious target of ₹17,900 crore for FY 2025–26, the BRO continues to serve as the silent sentinel of India’s frontiers, binding the nation’s borders with its heartland through engineering excellence.
What is the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)?
Established on May 7, 1960, with the creed “Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam” (Through hard work, all things are possible), the BRO is the premier agency for border infrastructure.
- Administrative Control: Since 2015–16, it functions fully under the Ministry of Defence.
- Human Capital: A unique fusion of military precision (Indian Army engineers and General Reserve Engineer Force - GREF) and civilian craftsmanship.
- Internal Reach: Operates 18 field projects across 11 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs).
Legacy and Impact (As of 2025)
Over six decades, the BRO has built a formidable network across some of the world's most challenging terrains:
- Roads: Over 64,100 km.
- Bridges: 1,179 structures.
- Tunnels: 7 major tunnels.
- Airfields: 22 strategic airfields.
In the 2024–2025 period alone, the BRO dedicated 356 infrastructure projects to the nation, significantly boosting defence preparedness and socio-economic development under initiatives like the Vibrant Villages Programme.
Key Strategic Assets
1. Tunnels
- Atal Tunnel (Himachal Pradesh): 9.02 km long; world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 ft, enabling all-weather Leh–Manali connectivity.
- Sela Tunnel (Arunachal Pradesh): Located at 13,000 ft, ensure uninterrupted access to Tawang.
- Nechiphu Tunnel: Bypasses a fog-prone section on the Balipara–Charduar–Tawang route.
- Shinku La Tunnel: (Ongoing) To provide all-weather connectivity to Ladakh.
2. Major Bridges & Airfields
- Devak Bridge (J&K): A 422.9 m link strengthening troop and heavy vehicle transit.
- Sisseri & Siyom Bridges (Arunachal): Strengthen logistics along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
- Bagdogra & Barrackpore Airfields: Reconstructed in 2023 to enhance IAF operational readiness.
Neighbourhood Diplomacy: Overseas Projects
The BRO serves as a tool for India's Act East and development-led diplomacy through key overseas missions:
- Project DANTAK (Bhutan): Launched in 1961; developed Paro and Yonphula airports and extensive road networks.
- Delaram-Zaranj Highway (Afghanistan): Provided Afghanistan access to Iran’s Port of Chabahar.
- India-Myanmar Friendship Road: A 160 km link connecting Moreh to Kalewa.
- Farkhor & Ayni Air Bases (Tajikistan): Strategic reconstruction projects enhancing India’s regional reach.
Disaster Resilience and Humanitarian Aid (HADR)
The BRO is often the first responder during high-altitude calamities:
- Fastest Snow Clearance: In 2023, Zoji La was cleared in a record 68 days.
- Bridge of Compassion: Re-established access to Reini (Uttarakhand) in just 26 days after the Rishiganga floods.
- Operational Doctrine: Integrates HADR to safeguard national security while ensuring civil resilience.
🎯 Analysis & Insights
Prelims mastery
Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only.
Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because the BRO has been functioning fully under the Ministry of Defence since 2015-16. Statement 2 is correct (DANTAK in Bhutan since 1961). Statement 3 is correct (Atal Tunnel is 9.02 km long and above 10,000 ft).
Mains perspective
"The Border Roads Organisation is not just a construction agency but a vital instrument of India's strategic autonomy and neighborhood diplomacy." Comment. (150 words)