Ladakh: World's highest battlefield Siachen area has been opened for tourists. Defence minister Rajnath Singh made the announcement in this regard today (October 21).

"Ladakh has tremendous potential in tourism. Better connectivity in Ladakh would certainly bring tourists in large numbers. The Siachen area is now open for tourists and tourism. From Siachen Base Camp to Kumar Post, the entire area has been opened for tourism purposes,” minister Rajnath Singh tweeted.

Referring to Ladakh area, Singh said that both India and China have handled the border issues responsibly and with maturity.

Indian Army had restricted the entry of citizens to Siachen Glacier till now. Only those living in the area, and those working as porters serving the Indian forces were allowed inside.

It was reported that the government was contemplating allowing tourists to Siachen to understand the challenges and problems faced by the Army personnel during harsh weather conditions.

Currently, Siachen Glacier is a part of Ladakh, a union territory. Ladakh was declared as a union territory after the abrogation of Article 370 by the Centre in August this year.

Minister Singh also dedicated the Colonel Chewang Rinchen Bridge’ at Shyok River in Ladakh for public use.

"Delighted to dedicate to the nation the newly constructed ‘Colonel Chewang Rinchen Bridge’ at Shyok River in Ladakh. This bridge has been completed in record time. It will not only provide all weather connectivity in the region but also be a strategic asset in the border areas," he tweeted.