Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir: The Leh-Srinagar National Highway (NH 1D), a crucial connection between Ladakh and the Kashmir Valley, remains closed for vehicular traffic due to heavy snowfall in the higher reaches. The highway, also known as the Srinagar-Leh Highway, is a vital lifeline for the people of Ladakh, providing access to essential supplies and services.
The snowfall began on Friday and continued through the weekend, accumulating several feet of snow at Zojila Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass located on the highway. The treacherous conditions, including the risk of avalanches, have prompted authorities to keep the highway closed for safety reasons.
![A closed gate blocking the Srinagar-Leh highway, with snow-covered mountains in the background]
With the highway closed, hundreds of travelers, including tourists, have been stranded in both Srinagar and Leh. Local authorities have arranged for temporary accommodation and essential supplies for those affected. The closure has also disrupted the transportation of goods and essential services to Ladakh, including food, fuel, and medicines.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), responsible for maintaining the highway, is working tirelessly to clear the snow and reopen the road. Heavy machinery is being used to remove the snowdrifts, but the process is slow and challenging due to the continuous snowfall and harsh weather conditions.
There is no official word yet on when the highway will be reopened. Travelers planning to visit Ladakh or Kashmir in the coming weeks are advised to check the latest weather updates and road conditions before making their travel arrangements.
The closure of the highway is a significant blow to the tourism industry in both Ladakh and Kashmir. The peak winter season attracts a large number of tourists to the region, and the closure of the highway will lead to cancellations and economic losses.
The closure of the Leh-Srinagar National Highway highlights the challenges faced by the people of Ladakh during the winter months. The heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions isolate the region, making it difficult to access essential supplies and services. The ongoing efforts to clear the highway are crucial for providing relief to stranded travelers and restoring normalcy to the region.
