The Leh-Srinagar highway, a critical lifeline connecting the strategic Ladakh sector with Srinagar, remained operational for an extended duration this winter, thanks to minimal snowfall and the implementation of advanced technology by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

Traditionally, the Zojila Pass, situated at an altitude of 11,800 feet, experiences heavy snowfall, prompting the BRO to engage in rigorous snow clearance operations from mid-December onwards. However, this year witnessed unprecedented circumstances, with negligible or minimal snowfall across the northwest Himalayas.

In recent years, the Zojila Pass typically closed for traffic around late December or early January. However, this year marked a departure from the norm, with the pass remaining open for an extended period due to scant snow accumulation and innovative technological interventions.

The BRO, responsible for maintaining 27 high-altitude snow-bound passes in the Ladakh sector, deployed a GPS-enabled route guiding system to navigate the challenging terrain more efficiently. This system, integrated with GIS technology, enables precise mapping of roads in high-altitude regions, facilitating smoother navigation even in adverse weather conditions.

Former BRO Director General, Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhary, emphasized the significance of maintaining supply chain logistics for troops stationed in forward areas of Ladakh. The prolonged operation of the Srinagar-Leh highway reduces dependence on costly Air Force logistical support, which amounts to approximately Rs 7-8 crore per day when the roads are impassable.

With the implementation of advanced technology and proactive measures, the BRO aims to reduce the number of days these crucial passes remain closed for traffic each year. Despite rising temperatures and changing weather patterns, the BRO endeavors to ensure timely opening of key routes, enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency in the region.

The utilization of modern technology, coupled with meticulous planning and execution by the BRO, underscores the organization’s commitment to facilitating connectivity and logistical support in challenging Himalayan terrain.

By : Kruthiga V S

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