Srinagar–Leh highway shut for 2nd day after fresh snowfall

Ganderbal, Apr 18: The Srinagar–Leh highway remained closed for the second consecutive day on Saturday following fresh snowfall and avalanche activity at multiple locations near the Zojila Pass.

The 434-km strategic highway, which serves as the only surface link between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, has been rendered unsafe due to snow accumulation and frequent slides, officials said.

Traffic has been halted at Sonamarg on the Kashmir side and Minamarg on the Ladakh side as a precautionary measure. Hundreds of vehicles, including heavy trucks and passenger vehicles, are stranded on both sides of the pass.

Officials said snowfall in Gumri and Zojila triggered avalanches at several vulnerable points, forcing authorities to suspend vehicular movement. *“Avalanches have occurred at multiple locations in Zojila following fresh snowfall. In view of unfavourable weather conditions, no vehicles will be allowed to ply on the highway,”* officials said.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has deployed men and machinery to clear snow and debris. However, restoration of traffic will depend on weather improvement and assessment of avalanche risks, they added.

Authorities have advised commuters to avoid travel on the route until an official clearance is issued.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast an improvement in weather conditions across the Kashmir Valley from April 19, raising hopes for the gradual reopening of the highway.