Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, IAS, on January 24 visited Zojila Pass to review the condition of the Srinagar–Kargil National Highway following recent snowfall in the region.

The visit was aimed at assessing the feasibility of reopening the vital road link for vehicular traffic. The Deputy Commissioner inspected the stretch from Drass to Zero Point, accompanied by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kargil Nitin Yadav and Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Drass Vishal Atri.

During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner said the district administration had already deployed the required manpower and machinery to ensure the highway is reopened before the next anticipated spell of snowfall. He reviewed the progress of snow clearance operations and directed the concerned departments to expedite the work.

The SSP Kargil instructed Ladakh Police officials to ensure smooth traffic movement on the Zojila axis, timely dissemination of traffic advisories, and adequate security and assistance for vehicles plying on the stretch.

Officials noted that Zojila Pass has remained open for an unusually extended period this winter. Despite multiple spells of snowfall, the administration has managed to keep the strategically important mountain pass operational even in January.

Traditionally, Zojila Pass remains closed for five to six months during winter due to heavy snow accumulation, making the current situation significant for regional connectivity and maintenance of essential supply lines.