Snow clearance underway on Mughal Road; expected to reopen before Lok Sabha polls

Poonch, March 08: Authorities have initiated a snow clearance operation on the Mughal Road, connecting Bufliaz Poonch to southern Shopian district, with officials expecting that the historic road is reopened for traffic before Lok Sabha polls.

According to officials, the snow clearance operation commenced from the Poonch side and is set to progress towards the Kashmir region in the coming days.

The operation, which began at Chandimorh area, involves deploying men and machinery to clear the snow along the 84-kilometer historic route.

"We hope in the coming two days the operation will be extended to Ratacham and Poshana areas," an official from the Roads and Buildings department informed Greater Kashmir.

The decision to expedite the snow clearance process stems from clear directives issued by higher authorities, emphasizing the need to restore the road for vehicular movement before the conduct of Lok Sabha polls.

The road was closed for traffic in the last week of January 2024 due to heavy snowfall in the region.

The Mughal Road, known for its historical significance dating back to the Mughal period, traverses over the Pir Panchal Pass, standing at an altitude of 3,500 meters, making it higher than the Banihal Pass at 2,835 meters.

Once reopened, the Mughal Road is expected to facilitate crucial transportation between Bufliaz Poonch and southern Shopian district, providing a vital link for commuters and traders alike.