SONAMARG: The vital lifeline connecting Ladakh with Kashmir, the Srinagar-Leh National Highway (NH-1), was reopened for vehicular traffic on Saturday evening after being closed for two days due to fresh snowfall at the strategic Zojila Pass.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) launched a massive snow-clearance operation amidst sub-zero temperatures to restore connectivity.
Current Traffic Status (Sunday Plan)
According to the J&K Traffic Police and BRO officials:
- Saturday Update: Traffic was released from the Kargil side (Minamarg) towards Sonamarg after the road was declared safe.
- Sunday Plan (Jan 18): Subject to fair weather, traffic is expected to be allowed from Sonamarg towards Kargil.
- Advisory: Motorists are strictly advised to carry anti-skid chains as the road surface near Zero Point and India Gate is extremely slippery due to icing.
The “Snow Warriors” of BRO
The highway had been closed since Friday following 8-10 inches of fresh snow at Zojila Pass.
- Project Beacon (Kashmir Side) and Project Vijayak (Ladakh Side) deployed heavy snow cutters and bulldozers.
- Conditions: BRO personnel worked in freezing conditions (minus 15°C) to clear the accumulated snow and avalanches.
Defying Winter Closure
Historically, the Zojila Pass closes by December. However, this year (2025-26), the BRO has managed to keep the pass open well into mid-January, marking a record extended season for connectivity to Ladakh.
Important Instructions for Travelers:
- Cut-off Timings: Follow the timing released by Traffic Police at Sonamarg and Minamarg. No vehicles will be allowed after the cut-off.
- Drive Slow: The stretch between Baltal and Gumri is prone to shooting stones and sudden fog.
- Helpline: Contact Traffic Control Room (Srinagar/Kargil) before starting your journey.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Sign-off: Reported by Kitto Traffic Desk | Edited by Senior Desk.
- Source Transparency: Information based on J&K Traffic Police Advisory and BRO Project Beacon updates (Jan 17).
- Disclaimer: Road status can change instantly due to weather. Always check official updates.
- Accountability: Found an error? Email kittonews@gmail.com.
