Kargil, March 09: Snow clearance operations on the Choksor-Batambis road in Ladakh are facing formidable challenges due to heavy snowfall and recurring avalanches. Launched on March 5, the operation follows the successful reopening of the Kargil-Choskore Road but has encountered 12-15 feet of accumulated snow, strong winds, and treacherous terrain, significantly hindering the progress.
Officials said that despite deploying two JCB backhoe loaders, a snow cutter, and a wheel loader, clearance teams are battling relentless snow drifts and repeated blockages, particularly along the zigzag stretches of Batambis La pass, where cleared snow continuously slides back onto the road.
“The Mechanical department has intensified efforts, repairing equipment breakdowns and deploying additional machinery to push through the final stretch. The unpredictable weather has made it even more challenging, as fresh snowfall often negates the work completed earlier in the day,” the officials said. “Engineers and workers are operating in sub-zero temperatures, braving icy winds and difficult terrain to ensure connectivity is restored as soon as possible.”
They said that the remote nature of the road, combined with the risk of sudden avalanches, has required careful coordination and real-time decision-making. “In some sections, workers have had to manually clear ice and snow using shovels when heavy machinery was unable to operate effectively. The resilience and determination of the workforce, despite the harsh conditions, highlight their commitment to restoring access to the snowbound villages,” the officials said.
As of the latest update, teams have successfully crossed Batambis La and are within 5-6 kilometres of Batambis village, with hopes of restoring access if weather conditions remain favourable. Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution, while Executive Engineer Er Mohd Hassan said: “Our teams are working round the clock to clear the road as swiftly as possible. We urge the public to avoid unnecessary travel in snow-prone areas until conditions improve.”
