Zojila axis partially restored after snowfall

Ganderbal, Mar 23: The Srinagar–Ladakh highway has been restored for one-way movement of light motor vehicles, with traffic allowed from Sonamarg towards Kargil from Monday afternoon, Traffic Police said.
The decision follows improvement in weather conditions and completion of snow clearance operations along the route, particularly across the Zojila axis.
The reopening is significant as the highway serves as a crucial link between Kashmir and Ladakh, and its closure since March 19 had left hundreds of passenger and goods vehicles stranded on both sides.
According to officials, the road was opened for limited traffic after the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) gave clearance following emergency snow removal efforts carried out from both ends of the highway.
A Traffic Police officer told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that light motor vehicles, including passenger vehicles and Tata Mobile vehicles, were allowed to proceed from Sonamarg towards Kargil from 2 pm.
He added that heavy vehicles and goods carriers have not yet been permitted due to prevailing weather conditions and the risk of avalanches at vulnerable points along Zojila.
“Movement of heavy vehicles will depend on weather stability. A separate advisory will be issued once conditions improve,” the officer said.
Authorities said the highway had been closed as a precautionary measure on March 19 following heavy snowfall, leading to accumulation of snow and heightened avalanche risk.
The Border Roads Organization undertook intensive clearance operations on a priority basis to restore connectivity, officials said.
Drivers have been advised to follow official traffic advisories and obtain real-time updates before undertaking travel on the route.
Officials said the situation continues to be monitored, and further decisions regarding full restoration of traffic will be taken based on weather and safety assessments. [KNT]