Authorities Restrict Srinagar-Leh Highway Traffic Amid Heavy Snowfall in Kargil Fresh snowfall swept through Minamarg and Zojila Pass in Kargil district on May 26, 2026, prompting authorities to impose temporary restrictions on vehicle movement along the Srinagar-Leh Highway. The unexpected weather event disrupted transportation, logistics, and local travel, with over 200,000 people affected by the sudden snowfall. Travelers faced delays and limited access due to poor visibility, icy road conditions, and hazardous terrain. The snowfall, though typical for high-altitude regions during late spring, posed significant challenges for both civilian and military movement along this critical mountain corridor. The Srinagar-Leh Highway, also known as National Highway 101 (NH-101), connects Kashmir Valley with Ladakh and serves as a vital lifeline for trade, tourism, and emergency services. The snow accumulation at high-altitude passes, including Zojila (elevation 11,700 feet), created dangerous driving conditions, leading to partial closures of the highway. Local authorities and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) implemented temporary restrictions to ensure safety, with road-clearing operations underway to restore full access. Vehicle movement along the highway was partially suspended, particularly for heavy trucks and passenger buses, as officials issued travel advisories urging motorists to avoid non-essential trips. Drivers were advised to equip their vehicles with snow chains, traction devices, and emergency supplies. The snowfall also caused minor traffic congestion in lower-lying areas like Ganderbal and Srinagar, as drivers adjusted to deteriorating road conditions.#border_roads_organisation #zojila_pass #srinagar_leh_highway #kargil_district #minamarg_pass
Avalanche Claims 7 Lives, Injures 5 On Zojila Pass Connecting Jammu-Kashmir And Ladakh A massive avalanche struck the Srinagar-Leh highway on Friday, killing at least seven people and injuring five others. The incident occurred on the Ladakh side of the Zojila Pass, a critical mountain route linking Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh. The snow slide trapped multiple passenger vehicles under debris, causing the highway to be completely blocked. Rescue and clearance operations are underway, with teams from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and police working to remove the snow and locate any remaining trapped individuals. The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, who is overseeing the response, stated that he has directed local officials to the site and activated all government agencies, including disaster relief forces and the BRO, to assist in the rescue efforts. Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the casualties on social media, expressing condolences to the families of the deceased and assuring that medical aid is being provided to the injured. The Srinagar-Leh Highway, also known as National Highway 1, is a 434-kilometer route that traverses the Zojila Pass at an elevation of 11,575 feet. The road is renowned for its scenic beauty but faces frequent closures during winter due to heavy snowfall and treacherous terrain. To address seasonal disruptions, a major tunnel project is underway across the Zojila Pass. Once completed, the tunnel will provide a year-round, safe connection between Ladakh and the rest of India. The 14.2-kilometer-long tunnel, with a width of 9.5 meters and an altitude of approximately 12,000 feet, is set to become the longest tunnel in Asia upon its completion.#ladakh #ladakh #border_roads_organisation #avalanche #zojila_pass #srinagar_leh_highway
Normal life disrupted in Pir Panjal region Heavy rainfall and snowfall persisted across Rajouri and Poonch districts of the Pir Panjal region on Thursday, with no indication of improved weather conditions. Low-lying areas faced moderate to heavy rain throughout the day, while higher elevations experienced light to moderate snowfall. The ongoing precipitation caused a significant drop in temperatures, worsening the already harsh cold in the region. The Mughal Road, a critical transportation route linking Rajouri and Poonch districts to Kashmir, remained closed to vehicle traffic. The road was shut down in the late evening on Wednesday due to adverse weather and stayed closed on Thursday. Authorities urged drivers to avoid non-essential travel and monitor official updates, as weather conditions remained unpredictable. SSP Traffic, Jammu Rural, Farooq Qaiser, informed Greater Kashmir that the Mughal Road remains closed for vehicles due to severe weather. Commuters on the road were advised not to proceed beyond Chandimarh. The Border Roads Organisation also assisted in rescuing several vehicles stranded on the road due to heavy snowfall.#mughal_road #border_roads_organisation #pir_panjal_region #rajouri_district #poonch_district
Stranded Vehicles Near Atal Tunnel Prompt Police Response Over 1,000 vehicles have become stuck near the Atal Tunnel outside Manali following heavy snowfall and ice buildup on the roads, which halted traffic for the second consecutive day. Reports of the stranded vehicles prompted immediate action from Manali Police, who deployed teams to the affected areas to manage the situation. Officers were stationed at multiple points to direct traffic, assist drivers, and help tourists navigating the hazardous conditions. Authorities began relocating vehicles back toward Manali to reduce congestion and lower the risk of additional accidents. Manali's Deputy Superintendent of Police, KD Sharma, confirmed that he was overseeing the operation on-site. "Every possible effort is being made by the police to ensure all individuals are safely evacuated toward Manali," Sharma stated in a statement to news agency PTI. The police plan to clear the road using soil, machinery, and, if necessary, urea fertilizer to melt ice. Sharma emphasized that the priority is to move stranded vehicles and tourists to safety. The operation has continued into its second day, with authorities urging those affected to remain calm and cooperate with rescue teams. Sharma added, "We request everyone to maintain patience and work with the police administration, as the police are committed to your service and safety." The police have also coordinated with the Border Roads Organisation and other agencies to expedite the deployment of additional teams to the site. The incident highlights the challenges posed by severe weather in the region, with authorities working to restore normal traffic flow while ensuring the safety of stranded travelers.#atal_tunnel #manali_police #kd_sharma #border_roads_organisation #atal_tunnel_road
