The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has successfully reopened Zojila Pass in a record 32 days, with Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, DG BRO, flagging off the first convoy towards Ladakh. The pass, a critical high-altitude link between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, is one of the world's most challenging mountain routes.
This year, heavy snowfall from February 27 to March 16, caused by a Western Disturbance, led to an intense but short closure period. Despite the harsh sub-zero temperatures, high winds, and avalanche-prone terrain, BRO cleared the massive snow accumulation in just 15 days (March 17–31), ensuring an early reopening.
The Zojila Pass closure, which once lasted nearly six months, has now been reduced to just a few weeks due to BRO’s technological advancements and improved snow-clearance techniques. The pass is vital for the movement of troops, trade, essential supplies, and medical services for Ladakh’s residents.
BRO, through Project Beacon in Kashmir and Project Vijayak in Ladakh, remains committed to maintaining year-round connectivity on this strategic route, ensuring minimal disruptions and enhanced regional accessibility.
(PIB)
