Important Passes in Jammu and Kashmir
Context:
A tragic avalanche near Zero Point at the high-altitude Zojila Pass claimed seven lives and injured five others.
The devastating incident, which buried several passenger vehicles under snow, has brought traffic management and safety regulations on the unpredictable Srinagar-Leh highway under severe scrutiny.
Zojila Pass:
Situated at an elevation of 3,528 metres in the Zanskar Range.
It is a critical, strategic link that connects the Kashmir Valley (Srinagar) with the Union Territory of Ladakh (Kargil and Leh).
Often referred to as the lifeline of Ladakh, it historically remained closed during severe winters.
It is Second-highest pass on the Srinagar-Leh Highway after Fotu La.
However, continuous efforts by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) have increasingly managed to keep it open for extended periods to maintain vital military and civilian supply chains.
Other Key Mountain Passes in the Region:
Banihal Pass:
Located at 2,832 metres across the Pir Panjal Range.
It serves as the primary gateway connecting the Jammu region to the Kashmir Valley.
The historic Jawahar Tunnel was constructed underneath this pass to ensure all-weather road connectivity.
Pir Panjal Pass:
A traditional pass situated in the Pir Panjal range that connects the Kashmir Valley to the Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu.
Burzil Pass:
A historically and strategically important pass that joins the Astore Valley of Kashmir with the Deosai Plains of Ladakh, serving as a traditional route connecting Srinagar t o Gilgit.