On July 20, 2019, Raksha Mantri Shri Ranjith Singh inaugurated and dedicated to the nation two strategically important bridges in Jammu & Kashmir—first, a one-kilometre long Jun bridge in Kathua district and the second, a 617.40-Metre-long Absenter bridge in Samba district. The bridges have been constructed at a cost of Rs 50 and 47.1 crore respectively. These bridges are vital for the Army for deployment on border areas. Reiterating the Central Government’s commitment to the development of connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, the Raksha Mantri said that the Prime Minister was regularly monitoring the progress of these projects and funds were being made available accordingly. Minister of State PMO Shri Jitendra Singh, who was also present on the occasion, highlighted the development programme of Central government and PM Modi’s steps for boosting connectivity in the state. Raksha Mantri praised the BRO personnel for working in the most hostile and the difficult areas away from their families. Director General Border Roads Lieutenant General Harpal Singh, underlined the contribution of BRO to the nation in far flung areas of the country under extremely difficult and harsh conditions. The event was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Bipin Rawat, along with many other Army and Civil administration dignitaries.
