Raja Syed Rather
Ganderbal, Jan 6: The authorities on Friday decided to close the Zojilla Pass for vehicular movement from tomorrow.
Chief Engineer Border Roads Organization (BRO) Brig Saket Singh said that for the first time, the Zojila Pass has remained open till January 06.
The Zojila Pass is a mountain pass located at an altitude of 11,649 feet in the NH1 region. It serves as a crucial connector between Leh and the Srinagar district and is maintained by the Border Road Organization. However, the pass can be difficult to keep open during the winter months due to slippery roads and heavy snowfall at low temperatures.
In recent years, there has been a need to keep the Zojila Pass open for longer periods of time. According to official records, the pass was open till December 13 in 2020; and last year, it was open till January 5. This year, it was open till January 6.
The Army yesterday said that its BRO ‘Karmyogis’, with their relentless effort under ‘Project Beacon’, facilitated connectivity to the Ladakh region by ensuring that the Zojila pass remained open despite heavy snowfall.
Today marks the final opening day for the Zojila Pass, as strong western disturbances are expected to bring heavy snowfall starting Saturday. This may be the last chance for travelers to use the pass until the weather improves.
However, he said that in view of the forecast of inclement weather, it shall be officially closed for vehicular movement from Saturday.
