Zojila Pass kept open by BRO for first time in January: Army

Srinagar based defence spokesman Col Emron Musavi said that in spite of heavy snowfall at Zojila, BRO Karmyogis, with relentless effort under 'Project Beacon', ensured that the pass remained functional facilitating connectivity to the Ladakh region.

Zojila -the land route from Kashmir to Ladakh- is the toughest Pass in the country due to its harsh weather conditions, treacherous and accident-prone mountain range.

Located at an altitude of 11,643 feet on Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri road, Zojiala is the lifeline between Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.

“Last year Zojila Pass was kept open till 31 December 2020, however this year due to concerted efforts of Project Beacon, the Zojila Pass was opened for the first time ever in the month of January,” the spokesman said.

He said Zojila Pass has its own unique challenges of freezing temperatures and lack of oxygen and frequent avalanches.

“Due to unrelenting efforts, BRO personnel have ensured trafficability on Srinagar – Sonamarg – Gumri Road across Zojila Pass by employing more than 20 heavy duty equipment including four state of the art Snow Cutters,” he said.

Project Beacon has ensured connectivity for strategic requirements of Defence forces and also the local population.

The snowfall in the last two- three days has resulted in slippery road conditions along Zojila Pass on Srinagar – Leh highway causing disruption to traffic movement.

“Detachments of Project Beacon with pre positioned equipments located at Gumri, Bajri Nallah, Baltal, Sonamarg and Gagangir played key role to in opening of the Pass despite the inclement weather conditions. Day and night loose their relevance when six teams deployed at different locations worked 24x7 to keep the road open during extremely challenging conditions,” he said.

“BRO Karamyogis ensured safe passage of 175 vehicles to cross over the pass since January 1. The efforts of BRO was lauded by the Civil administration as well as the local population,” the spokesperson added.