Srinagar-Leh NH reopens after 6-days

Sonamarg, Apr 4:  The Srinagar-Leh National Highway connecting Ladakh with Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday reopened for one-way movement of traffic after remaining closed for six days due to fresh snowfall on Saturday and multiple avalanches along the stretch.

The teams of Border Roads Organisation’s Project Vijayak and Project Beacon pressed machines for snow clearance.

However, inclement weather and fresh avalanches along Zojila delayed the road reopening.
On Thursday, the road was connected and restored for one-way movement of traffic.

An official said that the stranded vehicles including passenger vehicles and those with essential commodities were allowed to move towards Kargil from the Sonamarg side.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Traffic, Rural Kashmir, Ravinder Pal Singh told Greater Kashmir that at least 962 Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) including passenger vehicles and those with essential commodities were allowed from Sonamarg towards Kargil.

He said that the traffic plan for Friday would be issued and most likely traffic would be allowed from Kargil towards Srinagar.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, Muhammad Jaffer Akhoon appreciated the efforts of the BRO teams in connecting the Srinagar-Leh National Highway.

“Kudos to the diligent workers of Project Vijayak and Project Beacon for restoring the movement of traffic on the Zojila axis. Your professionalism and commitment to public service are truly commendable,” CEC Akhoon said.

The highway closure resulted in the disruption of essential supply routes.

The reopening brings relief to residents, especially during the holy month of Ramadhan, and the stranded passengers.