The Chisumle-Demchok Road was recently black-topped, making it the highest motorable road in the world and etching its name in the Guinness Book of World Records. And, it has a few more notable facts about it. By Anushka Goel
The Border Roads Organisation recently constructed and black-topped the Chisumle-Demchok road in Ladakh, creating a world record and being featured in the Guinness Book of World Records, reports Mint. The road, which is 52 kilometres long, connects Chisumle to Demchok and goes up to an altitude of 19,024 feet at the Umling La Pass. Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari also shared the news via social media.
Heartiest congratulations to @BROindia on achieving recognition from Guinness Book of World Records for constructing and black topping the World’s Highest Motorable Road at 19024 feet at Umling La Pass in Ladakh. pic.twitter.com/tVXpm3s5Ti
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) November 17, 2021
While the road has been in use for quite some time now, it becomes of significance now more than ever after receiving the Guinness recognition. However, this is not the first time India has been home to one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Previously, the road at Khardung La Pass in Leh, was among the highest in the world, at an altitude of 17,582 feet, reports Indian Express.
Importance of the Chisumle-Demchok Road
According to an HT Auto report, the road connects various important towns in the Chumar sector of Eastern Ladakh. It also provides a new, direct route connecting Chisumle and Demchok from Leh, writes Mint, which will be beneficial for the local population as well as boost tourism. What’s more, with the completion of the new bridge on this route, which was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, movement to Leh, Karu, and Nyoma, all of which have military stations, will become easier, writes Indian Express.
The highest motorable road in the world
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The Chisumle-Demchok Road is reported to be an even more challenging drive than the Khardung La Pass road, as temperatures at the Umilng La Pass can drop to minus 40 degrees celsius during peak winters, reports Mint. Oxygen levels here are also reportedly around 50% of that at sea level, adding to a traveller’s difficulty.
What’s also interesting to note is that this road is at a higher altitude than the Mount Everest South Base Camp in Nepal, which is located at an altitude of 17,598 feet. It is also higher than the Siachen Glacier, which is one of the toughest battlefields and is located at a height of 17,700 feet, according to Indian Express.
Related: Ladakh Government Cancels Chadar Trek And Snow Leopard Expeditions
