Kupwara I March 14, 2025 – The Karnah-Chowkibal Road, a vital lifeline in the remote Karnah region of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, has been reopened for traffic today, thanks to the relentless efforts of Project Beacon and the Indian Army. The route, which had been blocked due to fresh snowfall at NC Pass, was cleared under challenging conditions, ensuring connectivity is restored for local residents and travelers.
@JammuTribune, restoration work began promptly following the snowfall on March 13, 2025. Teams from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), under its Project Beacon initiative, alongside Indian Army personnel, worked tirelessly through extreme weather and potential avalanche threats to clear the snow-covered pass. Visuals circulating online depict heavy snow accumulation at NC Pass, with machinery and personnel braving the elements to make the road passable once more.
The reopening of the Karnah-Chowkibal Road, announced on March 14, 2025, at 11:35 IST via a post on X, marks a significant relief for the region, which often faces isolation during harsh winter months. The efforts of Project Beacon—a BRO endeavor dedicated to maintaining strategic roads in border areas—and the Indian Army have been widely praised for their swift response and dedication. Travelers are, however, urged to exercise caution while navigating the route, as residual snow and icy patches may pose hazards. Authorities have advised drivers to stay vigilant and ensure their vehicles are equipped for winter conditions.
The Karnah-Chowkibal Road serves as a critical artery connecting the Karnah valley to the rest of Kupwara district and beyond. Its closure, even for a short period, can severely impact the movement of goods, medical supplies, and people, making the rapid restoration a testament to the coordinated efforts of the military and BRO teams. Posts on X reflect a sentiment of gratitude toward the personnel involved, with users emphasizing the importance of their work under such arduous circumstances.
This development comes amid a broader context of weather-related challenges in the region. Recent snowfall and rainfall, while a boon for water resources, have also disrupted infrastructure projects, such as the Rs 100 crore hydroelectric power project in Karnah, as reported earlier this month. The timely reopening of the road underscores the resilience and preparedness of the forces tasked with maintaining accessibility in Jammu & Kashmir’s frontier areas.
As of now, no official statements from BRO or Army spokespersons have been detailed in the available data, but the successful clearance operation speaks volumes about their operational efficiency. Travelers and locals alike are encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions and road status, with safety remaining the top priority as the region navigates the tail end of its winter season.