SRINAGAR, Mar 6: For the first time ever, the strategic Zojila Pass along the strategic Srinagar-Leh Highway has remained open beyond February 28 despite heavy snowfall, marking a significant development for connectivity between the two union Territories, the Border Roads Organisation said on Friday.
Situated at an altitude of over 11,500 feet, Zojila Pass serves as a crucial lifeline for civilian supplies as well as military logistics to Ladakh.
According to the BRO, the vital mountain pass continues to remain operational even after intense snowfall in the region, marking a significant milestone in maintaining winter connectivity.
In a post on social media, the BRO said the development reflects the “relentless commitment” of its personnel in ensuring that the critical road link between Ladakh and the Kashmir Valley remains open.
“History at the heights of Zojila! For the first time ever, Zojila Pass has remained open beyond February 28 and continues to stay operational despite very heavy snowfall – a testament to the relentless commitment of #BRO in keeping the lifeline between Ladakh and the Kashmir Valley open,” the BRO said in a post on X.
A video shared by the BRO shows massive walls of snow lining the highway while snow-clearance machines and personnel work continuously to keep the road operational. The footage captures bulldozers and snow cutters carving a narrow passage through thick layers of snow as vehicles cautiously move along the cleared stretch, highlighting the extreme weather conditions and the scale of the operation.
Last winter, Zojila Pass remained closed for about 30 days. Officials said this year the pass has stayed open beyond February 28, setting a major record. Although comparatively less snowfall was recorded this winter in the higher reaches, including the Zojila Pass, officials said challenging weather conditions still prevailed.
