Chamoli: The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has completed a major road project in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, reaching close to the India-China border.
This new road connects Sumna-Lapthal to Topidunga, covering a total distance of 69.69 kilometers. The area is strategically important because the Chinese army has tried to intrude here several times.
#BROUttarakhandInfrastructure
At 2000 hrs on 19 Oct 2025, Project Shivalik @BROindia established connectivity on the Sumna–Lapthal–Topidunga Road (69.69 km), linking Garhwal & Kumaon regions of Uttarakhand.
Cutting through rugged terrain rising from 13,000 ft to 17,341 ft, BRO… pic.twitter.com/GbPtEfXAsb
— 𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 (@BROindia) October 23, 2025
No motorable road was available earlier
Earlier, this region was only accessible by foot. Tourists and locals had to walk long distances to reach the border areas. Now, with the road cutting completed, vehicles can reach Topidunga, making movement easier for the Indian Army and local administration.
BRO Commander Colonel Ankur Mahajan said that the road cutting work took four years to complete. The next phase will include asphalting and other finishing work. The road starts from Malari, which lies on the Jyotirmath-Malari-Niti Highway, and goes up to Sumna. From there, the new stretch connects to Topidunga, near the border.
Just before Diwali, BRO’s Project Hirak completed the 70-km Sumna-Lapthal-Topidunga road, cutting through rugged terrain up to 17,341 ft. BRO shared on its official X handle that excavators worked in double shifts amid sub-zero temperatures to build this lifeline for the Army and ITBP.
People need an Inner Line Permit to travel beyond Malari
To travel beyond Malari, people need an Inner Line Permit, as the area is close to the international border. The Lapthal Valley, where this road ends, was once a major trade route between India and Tibet. However, in recent years, the Chinese army has entered this area multiple times, sometimes on foot and sometimes using helicopters. There have even been incidents where Chinese soldiers destroyed tents of Indian shepherds.
Big step for India’s border security
The completion of this road is a big step for India’s border security. It will allow faster movement of troops and equipment in case of emergencies. It also helps in keeping a close watch on any suspicious activity near the border.
Key Security Challenges on the Indo-China Border in Chamoli
Chamoli faces strategic vulnerabilities due to repeated Chinese incursions, difficult terrain, depopulated border villages, and limited infrastructure. These factors complicate surveillance, troop mobility, and long-term border management.
The Indian Army has often faced challenges in this region due to the lack of road access. With this new road, patrolling and surveillance will become easier. It also shows India’s commitment to strengthening its infrastructure in border areas, especially in places where China has shown aggressive behavior.
Local people welcome BRO’s achievement
Local people and officials have welcomed the BRO’s achievement. They believe that better roads will not only improve security but also help in development and connectivity for remote villages.
This road project is part of India’s larger plan to improve border infrastructure. As tensions with China continue in some areas, such projects are seen as crucial for national defense and preparedness. With the road to Topidunga now open, India has taken another strong step in securing its borders and supporting its forces in high-altitude regions.