Union defence minister Rajnath Singh on Monday announced that the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield, was now open to tourists as part of the efforts to boost tourism in Ladakh and give people a first-hand experience of the tough conditions in which Army personnel operate.
Singh was addressing a function in eastern Ladakh.
“The Ladakh MP [Jamyang Tsering Namgyal] in his address, mentioned about opening this [Siachen] area to tourism. And, I am happy to share that the government has decided to open a route from Siachen Base Camp to Kumar Post for tourists. This step will make them [the general public] appreciate the efforts put in by jawans, engineers and other workers.”
The Army had in September moved a proposal to allow civilians to visit Siachen.
Singh also inaugurated the 1,400-foot long Col Chewang Rinchen Bridge on Shyok River, located about 45km from the county’s border with China that will connect Durbuk and Daulat Beg Oldi Road.
‘Ties with china cordial’
Later, Singh also tweeted, “India shares cordial relations with China. There are perceptional differences between both the countries on the boundary issue but the issue has been handled with great maturity and responsibly”.