Drass, August 31, 2026/ VOL News Desk/ Deputy Commissioner Drass, Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), chaired a meeting today to review the status and progress of the BRO road project and Swadesh Darshan Projects in Holiyal and Mushko Valley of Drass District.

The meeting was attended by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Drass, Vishal Atri; Executive Engineer, Tourism Development Authority of Kargil; Executive Engineer, REW-Drass; Block Development Officer, Drass; In-charge Officer, Operation Vijayak and other concerned officials.

The Deputy Commissioner held detailed discussions on various components of the projects and reviewed the proposed and ongoing works aimed at improving infrastructure, tourism facilities and the overall visitor experience in Mushko Valley. He laid particular emphasis on the development and improvement of the Holiyal-Mushko road including the stretch leading towards the upper reaches of the valley. He directed the concerned agencies to ensure quality execution of all works while maintaining the natural character and scenic beauty of the area.Emphasis was laid on the use of local stone masonry and dry-stone walling wherever feasible.

* Click to Follow Voice of Ladakh on WhatsApp *

The Deputy Commissioner highlighted the fact that local material, including stone and wood, should be appropriately incorporated into tourism infrastructure to give the projects a distinctive local and aesthetically appealing character.

Detailed deliberations were held on the development of the Mushkoo View Point, and the “I Love Mushko” installation using stone apart from a dedicated selfie point to enhance the valley’s tourism appeal. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned officials to ensure that these facilities are thoughtfully designed and developed to a high standard.

The proposal for developing a cycling track within the village area was also discussed. The Deputy Commissioner emphasised creation of a safe recreational route, particularly along the riverside and valley stretches with suitable provisions to restrict vehicular movement wherever required.

Special emphasis was also laid on providing essential tourist amenities, particularly well-designed and properly maintained washroom facilities at appropriate locations.

Regarding the bridge infrastructure in Mushko, the Deputy Commissioner stressed that the proposed works should incorporate attractive, functional and site-sensitive designs that complement the landscape while ensuring safety and durability.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the Tourism Development Authority, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Department and Border Roads Organization ((BRO) to maintain close coordination, expedite the works and ensure quality, durability and timely completion. He further stressed that all development interventions in Holiyal and Mushko should enhance tourism potential while preserving the natural landscape, local architectural character and ecological sensitivity of the valley.