Jammu, Jan 31:
In a major boost to inter-state connectivity, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has successfully reopened the strategic 112-km Kishtwar-Sansari road. The restoration, achieved by the 118 Road Construction Company (RCC) under Project Sampark, reconnects the Chenab Valley in Jammu & Kashmir with the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.
The operation was conducted under grueling conditions, with teams working at altitudes reaching 8,759 feet to clear massive snow accumulation that had paralyzed the region for over a week.
The Battle Against the Elements: A Timeline
The restoration was a race against a relentless winter cycle that saw multiple rounds of heavy snowfall:
-
Jan 22–23: Initial heavy snowfall (4–5 feet) completely blocks the axis.
-
Jan 25: Fresh snow disruptions stall early progress.
-
Jan 26: BRO teams successfully clear 2.5 feet of snow to reach Sansari.
-
Jan 27: A third spell of snowfall re-blocks the entire route.
-
Jan 28–30: “Operation War-Footing” launched. Within 72 hours, personnel cleared an additional 3.5 feet of snow to fully restore the interstate link.
A Lifeline Restored
The Kishtwar-Sansari stretch is more than just a road; it is the primary artery for the remote high-altitude communities of the Chenab Valley. Inter-State Link: Connects Jammu & Kashmir directly to Himachal Pradesh via Lahaul-Spiti. Economic Hub: Essential for the transport of agricultural produce, trade goods, and daily commodities. Humanitarian Axis: Provides isolated villagers access to critical healthcare and emergency services.
“Unwavering Commitment”
Lt Col Suneel Bartwal, PRO & Spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, Jammu, commended the resilience of the 118 RCC and 35 Border Road Task Force (BRTF).
“The dedication shown by our personnel in these extreme sub-zero temperatures reflects BRO’s unwavering commitment to nation-building and strategic connectivity. Their tireless efforts ensure that even the most remote corners of our country remain connected to the mainstream,” Lt Col Bartwal stated in an official release.
The successful reopening of the road comes as a massive relief to hundreds of residents and transporters who were stranded or cut off by the recent weather events.
