Srinagar, April 21, 2025 – A massive landslide struck the India Gate area of Zojila Pass on Sunday, April 20, 2025, severely disrupting traffic on the strategic Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri Road, a critical lifeline connecting Kashmir Valley to Ladakh. The landslide, which collapsed a large section of hillside, blocked the National Highway 1 route, stranding commuters and halting vehicular movement, according to officials from the Border Roads Organisation .
The incident occurred amid a spell of adverse weather in Jammu and Kashmir, characterized by heavy rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms, as reported by the Meteorological Centre, Srinagar. The fragile Himalayan geology of Zojila Pass, situated at 3,528 meters (11,575 feet), is prone to landslides and avalanches, exacerbated by recent climatic conditions. The SSG Road, vital for tourism, trade, and defense logistics, has faced recurrent closures this season due to snowslides and debris, with similar disruptions reported earlier in April.
The BRO’s 122 Road Construction Company has been deployed to clear the debris, with heavy machinery and personnel working round-the-clock to restore the road.
Kargil Police and local authorities have advised travelers to avoid the SSG Road until further notice, with traffic suspended in both directions. The Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police issued an advisory urging commuters to monitor updates and plan alternative routes, such as the Mughal Road, where one-way traffic has been permitted, subject to weather conditions. The closure has raised concerns among locals and tour operators, as the SSG Road is crucial for accessing Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination, and supporting Ladakh’s connectivity.
The ongoing construction of the 14.2-km Zojila Tunnel, aimed at providing all-weather connectivity, underscores the urgency of addressing the pass’s vulnerability. Inaugurated projects like the Z-Morh Tunnel, opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2025, have alleviated some connectivity issues, but the SSG Road remains susceptible to natural disruptions.
The BRO has appealed for patience, noting that fresh snowfall predicted through April 22 could complicate restoration efforts. Travellers are advised to contact the BRO or Ganderbal district administration for real-time updates.
