Back-to-Back Snow Avalanches Hit Strategic Gurez Route, BRO Launches Clearance Efforts
Bandipora, March 23, KNT: Two consecutive snow avalanches struck the strategic Bandipora–Gurez road in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Monday, blocking the key route and disrupting connectivity, officials said.
The avalanches hit separate locations along the 85-km-long stretch, a vital link connecting Gurez valley with the rest of Kashmir, they said.
The road serves as a critical lifeline for residents of the remote Gurez region, and disruptions can impact the movement of essential supplies and services.
According to officials of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), a major avalanche measuring nearly 200 metres in length and around 10 feet in height struck at kilometre 60 on the Bandipora–Gurez (BG) road.
Another avalanche occurred about one kilometre from Korkbal village, completely blocking the route at that point as well, they said.
There were no immediate reports of any casualties or vehicles being trapped in the avalanches, officials added.
BRO teams are expected to launch snow clearance operations to restore traffic movement, subject to weather and safety conditions, they said.
“The road is currently blocked due to avalanches at multiple locations. Clearance work will be taken up as soon as conditions permit,” an official said.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in view of continued snowfall and the risk of further avalanches in the mountainous region.
Locals in Gurez valley frequently face such disruptions during winter months, when heavy snowfall and avalanches cut off access for extended periods.
The Bandipora–Gurez road is considered strategically important, not only for civilian connectivity but also for logistical movement in the region.
Officials said further updates on road restoration would be issued after assessment of the affected stretches and weather conditions. [KNT]
