The Indian Government recently declared the Siachen Glacier area of Ladakh as open to tourists. An area known as the world’s highest battlefield, Siachen has been inaccessible to civilians for 35 years. This exciting development was announced during the inauguration of the ‘Col Chewang Rinchen Setu’ bridge.
Introduction to Col Chewang Rinchen Setu
The ‘Col Chewang Rinchen Setu’ is a noteworthy bridge spanning over the River Shyok. It forms a crucial link between Durbuk and Daulat Beg Oldie in Eastern Ladakh. Strategically situated between the Karakoram and Chang Chenmo ranges, this bridge holds significant importance.
Constructed at an altitude of around 15,000 feet, the ‘Col Chewang Rinchen Setu’ is a remarkable structure. Its length extends up to 430 metres and it is the product of advanced Micro Piling Technology. Micropiles are a deep foundational element crafted using strong, small-diameter steel casing and/or threaded bar. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in India executed the construction of this marvel.
About the Siachen Glacier
The Siachen Glacier lies in the Eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas, immediately northeast of Point NJ9842 where the Line of Control between India and Pakistan ends. Since 1984, it has been under Indian administration. The Siachen Glacier holds the title of being the second-longest glacier outside the polar regions of the world.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Glacier Location | Eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas |
| Administrative Control | Indian administration since 1984 |
| Geographic Importance | Lies just northeast of Point NJ9842 where the Line of Control between India and Pakistan ends |
| Size ranking outside Polar Areas | Second-longest glacier |
Geographical Significance
The Siachen Glacier is located south of the extensive drainage divide that separates the Eurasian Plate from the Indian subcontinent. This area forms part of the extensively glaciated portion of the Karakoram also known as the ‘Third Pole’. The strategic location of the Siachen Glacier makes it a valuable asset and an area of significant geopolitical importance.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024