By reopening the crucial Zojila Pass in a record-breaking 33 days, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) and Project Vijayak accomplished an incredible milestone and guaranteed crucial connectivity between Ladakh and the Kashmir Valley.
Members of Parliament (MP) Ladakh Haji Hanifa Jan, Director General of Border Roads (DGBR) Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, and the commanders of 14 and 15 Corps were among the dignitaries who attended the reopening ceremony. Together, they launched the first convoy from Srinagar to Kargil, signaling the start of vital military and civilian supplies along this vital route.
The 11,643-foot Zojila Pass, which is located on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri route, is essential for moving troops, supplies, and promoting business in Ladakh.
Heavy snowfall and avalanche threats between February 27 and March 16 made this year’s reopening especially difficult. In spite of these challenges, BRO staff showed remarkable fortitude in reestablishing connectivity during severe weather.
Speaking to reporters at Zero Point, Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan praised the commitment of BRO personnel in conquering the difficult terrain and severe weather. He emphasized that substantial funds had been set aside to guarantee improved security and effectiveness throughout the reopening procedure.
He also declared that three more important mountain passes in Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir had been successfully reopened, enhancing the area’s all-weather connectivity.
Lt Gen Srinivasan also gave updates on important infrastructure projects, including the Akhnoor-Poonch-Rajouri Road’s quick development and the Nimu-Padum-Darcha Road, which is anticipated to be operational next year despite winter difficulties.
These projects, which totaled ₹16,600 crore in projects last year alone, demonstrate BRO’s dedication to bolstering border infrastructure.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the BRO, the Indian Army, the Air Force, and local authorities were thanked by MP Haji Hanifa Jan for their assistance during the severe winter months. In recognition of the crucial roles that casual paid workers (CPWs) play, he called for higher pay and insurance coverage for them. Local authorities like SP Kargil Shree Ram and Councillor Drass Abdul Wahid also attended the event.
In addition to restoring connectivity, this accomplishment highlights Zojila Pass’s strategic significance as a lifeline for both military and civilian operations in Ladakh.
