By Kashmir News Corner 
Jammu, Jan 6 (KNC): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the newly constructed terminal building of Leh Airport along with several key developmental projects in the Union Territory of Ladakh during a proposed visit in April this year, sources said.
They said that the construction work on the modern terminal building at Leh Airport, whose foundation stone was laid by the Prime Minister on February 3, 2019, is progressing at a fast pace and is likely to be completed by April. The Prime Minister is expected to dedicate the project to the nation during his visit.
Sources told news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, Apart from the airport terminal, a host of strategic and civilian infrastructure projects are nearing completion in Ladakh and are slated for inauguration during the same period. These projects form part of the Centre’s broader push to strengthen connectivity, infrastructure and development in the strategically important region.
The Central Government has undertaken an extensive network of road, tunnel, highway and aviation projects in Ladakh, aimed at enhancing operational preparedness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) while simultaneously boosting socio-economic development and tourism for the local population.
While the upgradation work is underway, Leh Airport continues to operate normally, ensuring uninterrupted air connectivity to and from the Union Territory. Commercial flight operations remain unaffected, reflecting efficient execution of the expansion project.
Sources said the upcoming terminal is designed as a state-of-the-art facility with 20 check-in counters, centralized heating and cooling systems, and the capacity to handle around 1,000 passengers each in arrivals and departures. The terminal is expected to significantly improve passenger experience and cater to the rising inflow of domestic and international tourists.
In a major sustainability initiative, the new Leh Airport terminal will be among the first in the country to operate on a hybrid geothermal and solar energy system, aligning with India’s commitment to green and environmentally responsible infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and briefed him on ongoing development works and welfare initiatives in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, the LG apprised the Prime Minister of major infrastructure projects, efforts to improve road and air connectivity, and initiatives aimed at strengthening public services in remote and border areas. Issues related to education, healthcare, sustainable tourism and employment generation for local youth were also discussed.
Gupta highlighted the administration’s focus on inclusive and people-centric development, particularly in far-flung regions facing extreme climatic conditions, and shared feedback received from the grassroots regarding public aspirations.
The Prime Minister appreciated the development initiatives underway in Ladakh and assured continued support from the Centre for the region’s overall progress and the welfare of its people, sources added. (KNC)