Srinagar, April 01: The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and Project Vijayak reopened the strategic Zojila Pass in a record-breaking 33 days. The reopening was officially marked by the presence of Member of Parliament (MP) Ladakh, Haji Hanifa Jan, along with Director General Border Roads (DGBR), Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, PVSM, VSM, Corps Commanders of 14 Corps and 15 Corps, who jointly flagged off the first convoy from the Srinagar side to Kargil.
The reopening of Zojila Pass is a significant achievement, ensuring the seamless movement of essential supplies, military logistics, and civilian traffic. Workers braved extreme weather conditions and constant avalanche threats to restore connectivity, reflecting their unwavering dedication and resilience.
Addressing the media at Zero Point, Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan lauded the relentless efforts of BRO personnel in overcoming the region’s treacherous terrain and harsh climate.
Unlike previous years, a significant amount was spent to facilitate the reopening, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency, he said.
He announced that the BRO has also successfully reopened three other crucial mountain passes in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, further strengthening all-weather connectivity in the region.
Lt Gen Srinivasan further provided updates on critical infrastructure projects, highlighting the progress of the Nimu-Padum-Darcha Road, which is expected to be operational next year despite the ongoing challenges of extreme winter conditions. He also noted the rapid development of the Akhnoor-Poonch-Rajouri Road, enhancing connectivity in the region.
The BRO has executed projects worth ₹16,600 crore, significantly boosting India’s border infrastructure. With 11,170 km of roads constructed last year alone, the BRO continues to be a vital force in emergency and remote-area development.
MP Ladakh Haji Hanifa Jan expressed his gratitude to the Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BRO, the Indian Army, the Air Force, Deputy Commissioner Kargil, and Superintendent of Police Kargil for their crucial support in ensuring the well-being of the people of Ladakh, particularly during the harsh winter months. He also urged the government to increase wages and insurance coverage for CPWs, recognizing their significant contributions.
The event witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, including Councillor Drass Abdul Wahid, SP Kargil Shree Ram, and Chief Engineers of Project Vijayak and Beacon, reinforcing the importance of Zojila Pass as a lifeline for the region.
