Anantnag, March 15: The district administration has ordered the opening of the Anantnag-Sinthan Top road for light motor vehicles “but with certain conditions”. The road was closed in December last year due to heavy snowfall in the area.
Sinthan Top is an offbeat tourist destination located 45 kilometres from Kokernag – a renowned picnic spot – on the Anantnag-Kishtwar road, at an elevation of 12,414 feet above sea level.
According to Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Kokernag, Sarib Sahran, the road was cleared on February 22 by the NHIDCL (PMU Kishtwar) at the direction of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag.
“We were approached by a number of public delegations regarding the opening of Sinthan road. Furthermore, many other tourists were interested in visiting the place. In this regard, we have coordinated with all line departments and solicited their assistance,” SDM Kokernag said.
An official said the NHIDCL and Tourism Department had informed the administration that the necessary steps as directed by DC Anantnag had been taken, adding that 4×4 camper vehicles, prefab toilets near Sinthan top, and signage boards had been installed, and the road was ready to be opened.
He said the road was opened for light motor vehicles on March 15 in response to public requests and to boost tourism in the area but with certain conditions.
“Vehicles will be allowed to ply on the road from 9 am to 12 pm. No vehicle will be permitted to travel on Sinthan road after 2 pm from Daksum, and the vehicles must begin their return journey before 2 pm,” the official said, adding, “However, as advised by NHIDCL, the travellers are advised to take all precautions and travel on their own risk and responsibility as the area is still susceptible to shooting stones, landslides, etc in this season.”
The road used to remain closed for vehicular movement till April. Last year too, the road was opened on April 6. The efforts are being made to minimise the closure time, the official added.
