For the first time, key mountain pass at a height of 11,649 feet is open for traffic after December 31
LEH : For the first time, the logistical supply line to Ladakh through the snow-bound Zoji La mountain pass has been kept open beyond December 31. The Zoji La pass is at a height of 11,649 feet.
Traditionally, heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions force closure of the Zoji La Pass in the winter months, disrupting the main supply route to Ladakh, imposing severe logistical restrictions on the heavily militarized zone and impeding supplies to civilians.
Winter closure of the Zoji La puts heavy pressure on airlift capacity.
“They (Border Roads Organisation) are collectively responsible for maintaining the axis that has strategic implications, in addition to the socio-economic well-being of Ladakh,” the Ministry of Defence stated on January 4, lauding the feat “which hitherto was considered impossible by many”. Last year, the key Pass was kept open till December 31.
The BRO acquired state-of-the-art snow clearance equipment and augmented personnel to beat the extreme elements and keep traffic passing through Zoji La.
In the first three days of 2022, 178 vehicles have been able to transit through the Pass. The numbers are considered significant because with temperatures plummeting to Minus 20 degrees Celsius, the road is subject to extreme frosting amidst blizzard-like conditions, which can lead to accidents.
Besides snow clearance, the axis is subjected to maintenance on a daily basis to keep it road worthy. The Ministry of Defence attributed this achievement to the “relentless and selfless efforts of the Karamyogis of BRO”. Two frontline projects of the BRO – Beacon and Vinayak – are working round-the-clock to keep the supply line to Ladakh open.
The additional time that this strategic road is kept open reduces the logistic burden on the Government and people of Ladakh to stock additional rations and supplies to brave the harsh winters.
