Bandipora Police, BRO Rescue 30 Vehicles Stranded at Razdhan Pass After Fresh Snowfall
Bandipora, April 18, KNT: Bandipora Police, in coordination with the Border Roads Organization (BRO), rescued around 30 stranded vehicles at Razdhan Pass on the Gurez–Bandipora road after fresh snowfall made the route slippery and unsafe.
The rescue operation was launched after sudden snowfall along the high-altitude stretch created hazardous driving conditions, leaving multiple vehicles stuck near Razdhan Pass for several hours.
According to officials, at least 12 tourist vehicles and 18 passenger vehicles were stranded along the approximately 85-kilometer route. The situation worsened as the road turned extremely slippery, halting movement and raising safety concerns for those on board.
Upon receiving information, SHO Gurez Nazir Ahmad, along with a team from Police Station Dawar, rushed to the site. Working in coordination with BRO personnel, the team undertook a joint rescue operation under challenging weather and terrain conditions.
All stranded vehicles were safely cleared by around 8:30 pm, restoring limited movement along the affected stretch.
📒Bandipora–Gurez Road | Key Facts
The Bandipora–Gurez road is an approximately 85-kilometer mountainous route in north Kashmir that connects Bandipora town with the remote Gurez Valley near the Line of Control (LoC).
The road passes through the high-altitude Razdhan Pass, located at an elevation of over 11,600 feet, making it highly vulnerable to weather disruptions, especially during winter and early spring.
Due to heavy snowfall and avalanche risks, the road remains closed for several months each year, typically from late autumn to early spring, cutting off Gurez Valley from the rest of Kashmir.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is responsible for maintenance and snow clearance along the route, while local administration and police monitor traffic movement and safety conditions.
The road is strategically and socially significant, serving as the primary lifeline for residents of Gurez Valley, facilitating movement of essential supplies, medical access, and limited tourism during open months.
Speaking to Kashmir News Trust, Nazir Ahmad said the police remain committed to assisting people in distress, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
“Our efforts are always focused on helping and serving people while ensuring their safety despite harsh conditions. Around 30 vehicles, including 12 tourist vehicles, were stranded for hours and were safely rescued by our team,” he said.
He reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir Police remains dedicated to public welfare and will continue to respond promptly to emergencies to safeguard lives and property.
Authorities also advised commuters to check weather updates and road conditions with control rooms before undertaking travel, especially in sensitive areas like Razdhan Pass, and to avoid journeys during adverse weather.
Meanwhile, the Gurez–Bandipora road remained closed for the second consecutive day due to fresh snowfall at Razdhan Pass. Light to moderate rainfall was also reported in parts of Gurez Valley, further impacting movement and slowing down restoration efforts. [KNT]
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