Fresh snow blankets higher reaches of Sonamarg amid ongoing cold wave

Ganderbal, Dec 8 : Zojila Pass on the Srinagar–Leh road witnessed light snowfall on Monday, resulting in a thin layer of fresh snow over the 11,575-feet-high mountain pass and causing slippery road conditions that briefly affected traffic movement.

Officials said the snowfall led to reduced traction on the road surface, particularly at vulnerable stretches along the Zojila axis, prompting precautionary traffic regulation for a short period.

The upper reaches of the Sonamarg health resort in Ganderbal district also received light snowfall, which was accompanied by a noticeable fall in temperatures. Locals and tourists reported colder conditions as cloudy weather persisted across the area throughout the day.

The fresh snowfall occurred amid an ongoing cold wave across the Kashmir Valley, adding to the season’s harsh weather in higher altitudes. Zojila Pass is considered strategically and economically crucial, as it remains the only surface link between Kashmir and Ladakh during the winter months.

Officials from the Border Roads Organisation said teams were deployed early in the morning to ensure road safety and smooth vehicular movement. “Our men were on the ground spreading soil and salt at slippery and vulnerable patches to prevent skidding and improve road grip,” an official said, adding that efforts were aimed at keeping the road operational despite the weather conditions.

Traffic movement was restored after preventive measures were taken, and officials said continuous monitoring was being carried out in view of further weather fluctuations.