Srinagar (NVI): The strategic Srinagar-Leh Highway, which is the only route between Kashmir and Ladakh, was thrown open for vehicular traffic by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) from today.
For the first time ever, the strategic highway remained closed for shortest period and was reopened after 58 days.
“This road is lifeline for the survival and economic development of people of Ladakh and for the security forces. Snow clearance of Zojila Pass is a big challenge owing to snow accumulation of 30-40 feet, threats of avalanches and inclement weather conditions. Inspite of all odds, the snow clearance operations have been conducted and completed with professionalism,” read an official statement.
“Border Roads Organisation (BRO) opened strategic Srinagar-Leh Highway on 28 Feb i.e on Sunday. About __ vehicles carrying essential commodities were initially allowed to move towards Leh-Ladakh from Zojila pass. This was managed despite fresh snowfall in Zojila pass,” it added.
Due to the ongoing border dispute in Eastern Ladakh, keeping Zojila pass open for extended period was strategic requirement. “BRO with grit dedication to serve the nation, kept Z axis trafficable till 31 Dec 2020. Snow clearance was resumed again on 07 Feb and link up with Drass was made on 15 Feb 21. The pass has been declared opened on 28 Feb officially by DGBR, Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhary. In recorded history, this has been the earliest opening of Zojila and also minimum period of closure of this axis,” as per the statement.
“This historic feat has been possible by dedicated team of Project Beacon and Vijayak of BRO. Despite of harsh and inclement weather conditions, personals of BRO rose for the national cause and proved that they are best against extreme conditions. BRO deployed latest equipment and established additional detachments to reduce the closure period of this axis,” it said.
-ARK
