Kargil administration races to restore services after heavy snowfall

The District Administration Kargil has launched an intensive restoration drive to reinstate essential services—such as road connectivity, electricity, water supply, and medical facilities—across the district following a heavy snowfall on April 20. The restoration efforts are being spearheaded by the Deputy Commissioner with the full support of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Kargil.
The unexpected snowfall caused widespread disruption to daily life and vital infrastructure. Key services including transport, electricity, and water supply have been severely affected in several parts of the district. Residents have been urged to remain cautious, avoid venturing near rivers and water channels, and consider relocating from vulnerable areas.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the administration is working on a war footing to ensure swift and time-bound restoration of services. Snow clearance operations are underway, prioritizing routes leading to medical facilities, government offices, and other essential service points. Attention is also being given to internal and link roads.
Field teams from the Power Development Department (PDD) are actively working to restore electricity in affected regions, while the Public Health Engineering Department (PHE) is making efforts to resume water supply at the earliest.
The Deputy Commissioner has confirmed that all line departments are on high alert and working in close coordination to address the disruptions. Control Rooms have been established at all Sub-Divisional Headquarters to provide 24x7 surveillance and assistance.
Under the direction of the Senior Superintendent of Police, personnel have been deployed at key locations. The Traffic Police and the UT Disaster Response Force (UT-DRF) are also playing a crucial role in the ongoing operations. Efforts are focused on reopening major mountain passes including Namikala, Penzila, and Hambutingla.
In Kargil Town, the Municipal Committee is actively engaged in snow clearance and restoration operations. The Mechanical Division has also deployed men and machinery to clear roads throughout the district. Meanwhile, the NHIDCL and BRO are involved in clearing snow from the NH-301 and NH-01 highways.
As a precautionary measure, all government and private schools across the district will remain closed for the next three days.
The District Administration, in collaboration with all relevant departments, remains committed to the full restoration of services and infrastructure. Joint assessment teams are already evaluating damages in affected areas to facilitate a coordinated response.