Police rescue around 20 vehicles stranded at Zojila Top amid heavy snow and gusty winds

Minimarg, March 16, KNT: Motorists travelling on the Srinagar–Kargil highway are facing severe difficulties due to extremely slippery road conditions at Zojila Pass even as the strategic route has been reopened for traffic after recent snowfall, officials said.

The high-altitude mountain pass, which connects Kashmir with Ladakh, remains treacherous as snow accumulation and freezing temperatures have made sections of the road dangerously slippery, slowing vehicular movement and increasing the risk for drivers.

The situation worsened after fresh snowfall and strong gusty winds at Zojila Top caused several vehicles to lose traction, leaving around 20 vehicles stranded on the snow-covered stretch, officials said.

Police teams from the Ladakh region launched a rescue operation and safely evacuated the stranded motorists from the area.

All passengers were escorted towards Kargil after the rescue operation, and no injuries were reported, officials said.

Passengers travelling in the vehicles expressed relief after being safely evacuated from the high-altitude pass, which is known for rapidly changing weather conditions and frequent snowstorms during winter months.

The Srinagar–Kargil highway, a crucial road link connecting the Kashmir Valley with Ladakh, had recently been reopened after days of closure due to heavy snowfall and avalanche threats.

Despite the reopening, drivers continue to face hazardous conditions at Zojila Pass, where thick layers of snow and icy surfaces make driving particularly challenging.

Transporters and motorists travelling along the route said that vehicles were moving slowly as drivers exercised extreme caution while crossing the slippery stretches of the pass.

Authorities have advised motorists to follow traffic instructions and avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.. [KNT]