Bandipora, March 30, 2025 – The Bandipora-Gurez Road, a vital 85-kilometer lifeline connecting the remote Gurez Valley to the rest of Jammu and Kashmir, has been closed for 28 days due to heavy snowfall, severely impacting residents and leading to a shortage of essential supplies. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has intensified its efforts, deploying specialized snow clearance teams to restore connectivity, with officials anticipating the road to reopen soon.
The closure, triggered by significant snow accumulation at Razdan Pass—an elevation of over 11,600 feet—began in early March, isolating Gurez Valley during the harsh winter season. Local residents have reported dwindling stocks of food, fuel, and medical supplies, exacerbated by the ongoing holy month of Ramzan, which has heightened the demand for fresh provisions. “The prolonged closure has disrupted daily life and access to healthcare,” said a Gurez resident, echoing the community’s growing frustration.
The BRO, tasked with maintaining this strategic route, has expedited its snow clearance operations. The 56 RCC (Road Construction Company) teams, equipped with snow-cutting machines and heavy machinery, are working from both ends—Bandipora and Gurez—to clear the thick snow cover. “Despite challenges like avalanches and inclement weather, we’re making significant progress,” said an official from BRO. Recent updates indicate that traffic may resume one-way from Bandipora to Gurez within days, with mandatory anti-skid chains for vehicles to ensure safety on the icy stretches.
Historically, the Bandipora-Gurez Road remains closed for up to three months during winter due to heavy snow at Razdan Pass. However, this year’s 28-day closure, while shorter than usual, has still strained the region’s resources. The Deputy Commissioner of Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, assured that emergency measures, including helicopter services, are available for medical evacuations and critical needs. “We’re coordinating with BRO to expedite the reopening and ensure relief for residents,” he added.
The reopening of the road is eagerly awaited by locals and officials alike, as it will restore access to fresh vegetables, fuel, and other essentials, providing much-needed relief to Gurez Valley. The BRO’s efforts underscore the critical role of infrastructure maintenance in sustaining connectivity to Jammu and Kashmir’s remote regions during winter.