Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Apr 1: The Zojila Pass, a vital link between Ladakh and the rest of the country, was reopened today by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) after remaining closed for 33 days-one of the shortest closure periods on record.
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The reopening ceremony was attended by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15 and 14 Corps of the Indian Army, along with officials from Project Vijayak.
Ladakh’s Member of Parliament (MP), Mohmad Haneefa, was also present and led the reopening alongside the Director General of BRO.
Officials stated that unlike previous years, when expenditures on such operations were minimal, this time, significant resources were allocated to expedite the process and enhance efficiency.
“The proactive approach not only set a new benchmark in road-clearing operations but also reinforced the Government’s commitment to infrastructure development in remote and strategically vital areas,” an official said.
Lt. Gen. Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of BRO, while speaking to reporters after reopening the pass for vehicular traffic, termed it a remarkable achievement, emphasizing that every year, the BRO is setting new benchmarks.
“This is a big moment. We have managed to reopen the major road connecting Srinagar with Leh in just 33 days-a milestone achieved through relentless day-and-night efforts,” he said.
The pass, situated at an altitude of 11,649 feet, is a crucial lifeline between Ladakh and the rest of the country, particularly the Kashmir Valley, facilitating the movement of goods and defense personnel.
The pass typically remains closed during harsh winter months due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions. However, this year, it remained open till February 25.
The DG further stated that the scale of development and expenditure undertaken in border areas by the Government was “unprecedented.”
“Never before have we seen such infrastructural development and facilities. Thanks to these advancements, we are achieving new milestones every year. I assure the people of border areas that BRO stands with them, and each year, more development will take place,” he added.
He emphasized that the Srinagar-Leh road is of both strategic and economic importance, making all-weather connectivity a top priority.
Srinivasan stressed that the BRO is committed to minimizing disruptions on the highway.
“Every year, we aim to reduce the duration of the closure. We have modern machinery, but beyond that, we have passion-greater than these mountains. Both projects from Srinagar and Leh compete to reach the pass first,” he said.
He also noted that keeping the road open depends on snowfall patterns. “If heavy snowfall occurs in January, reopening becomes difficult. However, we start work as soon as snowfall stops.”
Speaking about the risks associated with snow clearance operations, Srinivasan highlighted the dangers faced by workers.
“Snow is everywhere, making it impossible to tell where the road begins or ends. Experienced personnel lead the bulldozers, risking their lives. Avalanches are also a serious threat. We work with technical precision and prioritize safety first,” he said, lauding the efforts of engineers and labourers.
Locals said the early reopening of the pass would enhance connectivity, facilitate movement, and boost economic activities in the region.
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