Leh, Jun 27 (UNI) Terming opening of Bilaspur-Manali-Leh Railway line as an important step, Union Minister for Railways Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu said this important railway line would prove a boon not only in tourism promotion, but would open so many employment opportunities to the locals besides strengthening the nation’s security. An official spokesperson here today said that another historic moment was scripted in the chapter of Ladakh with the laying of the foundation stone for final location survey work of Bilaspur-Manali-Leh New Rail Line by Mr Prabhu at Leh. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Prabhu said that with the motto of ‘One Nation-Strong Nation’, the Central government is committed to link every nook and corner of the country and bring the people of different regions closer. “Opening of Bilaspur-Manali-Leh Railway line is an important step in this direction that will certainly benefit Ladakh, besides providing an opportunity for the people from the rest of the country to meet with the great people of Ladakh and natural beauty of this unique paradise on earth,” said the Railway Minister after inaugurating the survey work of this strategic railway line. Mr Prabhu said that ‘once we have a concrete planning, there should be no obstacle in achieving the goal and as such the Indian Railways is well determined to face every challenge by using all modern technology in the implementation on this project’. The Minister also assured to carry forward the project focusing on conservation of the fragile environment of the region. Mr Prabhu further said that opening of this important railway line would prove a boon not only in tourism promotion but would open so many employment opportunities to the locals besides strengthening the Nation’s security. Meanwhile, in his address, Minister for Ladakh Affairs, Chhering Dorjey termed this development as a historic day for Ladakh, and hoped that under the dynamic leadership of Mr Prabhu, the dream of this lifeline shall become reality within the shortest possible time. “The Bilaspur-Manali-Leh New Rail Line when completed would become a tourist attraction itself besides opening a new gate of development in Ladakh,” he added. The Minister further said that this railway line besides providing an easy access for Ladakh, also help to strengthen the national security and integrity. UNI ABS SHK 2100