The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has restored the 112-km Kishtwar-Sansari road, blocked by heavy snowfall, in just 72 hours, reconnecting Jammu and Kashmir's Chenab Valley to Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul Spiti. This vital route serves as a lifeline for inter-state movement and essential services in high-altitude areas.
The 112-km Kishtwar-Sansari road, linking Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir to Lahaul Spiti in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 8,759 feet, was blocked by four to five feet of snow due to heavy snowfall between January 22 and 23. A fresh spell on January 25 worsened the situation, officials said.
On January 26, BRO's 118 Road Construction Company (RCC) under the 35 Border Road Task Force (BRTF) began restoration, clearing 2.5 feet of snow to restore access up to Sansari. However, another snowfall on January 27 blocked it again. Intensive operations started the next morning, and within 72 hours, the entire 3.5 feet of snow was cleared, fully reopening the road to Sansari.
As per a statement from Defence Ministry spokesperson in Jammu, Lt Colonel Suneel Bartwal, the road is a lifeline for the region, connecting the Chenab Valley in J&K with Lahaul Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. It facilitates inter-state movement and the transport of essential commodities, agricultural produce, and trade goods between the two states. The route also ensures access to healthcare, education, and emergency services for remote high-altitude communities.
BRO and Project Sampark officials praised the personnel for their tireless work in extreme weather and high-altitude conditions, describing the effort as a race against nature.
