CINEHIND

Breaking News

In Avengers: Doomsday, will Scarlett Johansson reprise her role as Natasha Romanoff? This is the actor's statement.

BRO Triumphs: Zoji La Pass Reopens Early, Boosting Frontier Connectivity

Kalyani Jha
31 Mar, 2024

In a remarkable feat of engineering and dedication, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has once again conquered nature’s formidable challenges by reopening the Zoji La pass for vehicular traffic. This lifeline, crucial for connecting Ladakh via Srinagar, has been unveiled after just 35 days of being snowbound, a substantial improvement compared to the 68 days it remained closed last year.

The successful reopening of Zoji La underscores India’s growing prowess in constructing resilient mountain roads, a development that holds immense strategic and humanitarian significance. The 439-km Srinagar-Leh road, anchored by Zoji La pass at an altitude of 11,540 ft, is not merely a conduit for supplies but a vital link that bolsters border defense and sustains the lives of people in the frontier region.

Previously plagued by prolonged winter closures lasting 160-180 days, Zoji La’s reduced shutdown duration is a testament to focused governmental initiatives and the deployment of cutting-edge machinery. Despite occasional traffic interruptions due to winter’s harsh whims, prompt efforts have consistently been made to restore passage swiftly, exemplified by the recent closure on December 23 followed by a quick reopening.

This efficiency has ushered in a new era of organized troop rotations, pivotal in post-Galwan border conflict scenarios with China. Additionally, civilian and essential supply transportation via road, now more reliable due to the pass’s early restoration, curtails reliance on costly air freight during snow-induced closures.

The positive ripple effects extend to residents and guest workers who can now opt for economical road travel over expensive airfare, especially during challenging weather spells. BRO’s snow-clearing mastery has been integral to these successes, showcasing their adeptness in handling arduous mountain terrain.

Looking ahead, the government’s ongoing construction of a tunnel beneath Zoji La promises even greater strides in frontier connectivity. This thermal tunnel, nearing completion, heralds improved defense readiness, enhanced local living standards, and a tourism boost by ensuring uninterrupted year-round access.

The early reopening of Zoji La isn’t just about roads; it’s a testament to India’s resolve to overcome nature’s obstacles, fortify border connectivity, and enrich the lives of those in the frontier expanse.