Zojila Pass, Sonamarg receive heavy snowfall

Ganderbal, Dec 12: The Zojila Pass and Sonamarg health resort in Ganderbal district experienced heavy snowfall on Thursday, resulting in the closure of the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) road.

The Zojila Pass received 8-10 inches of snowfall while Sonamarg saw 5-6 inches of snow, covering the area in a white blanket.

The Srinagar-Leh National Highway was closed to traffic due to snow accumulation.

Approximately, 8 inches of snow accumulated at Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, prompting a precautionary halt to traffic movement.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has deployed its machinery for snow clearance, with an official from the BRO’s Project Beacon stating that the machines were actively working to clear the snow from the road.

He said that after completing the snow clearance work and as weather conditions improve, a decision will be made regarding the resumption of traffic.

Meanwhile, Police in Kargil appealed to commuters and drivers to adhere to the traffic advisory for their safety during these conditions.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan on Wednesday ordered that only 4x4 vehicles or those equipped with anti-skid chains would be allowed further up from Gagangeer towards Sonamarg to avoid any mishaps and prolonged jams along the road.

Parts of Ladakh also received snowfall.

Drass, Minamarg, and Kargil witnessed light to moderate snowfall, ending a dry spell in the region.