BRO restores snowbound Kishtwar–Sansari road, reconnects J&K’s Chenab Valley with Himachal

The deep snow-covered inter-state Kishtwar-Sansari road, the lifeline for the Chenab Valley in J&K and Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh, has been restored for vehicular movement by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), officials said on Saturday.

The 118 Road Construction Company (RCC) of 35 Border Road Task Force (BRTF), Project Sampark, of BRO has successfully restored road connectivity along the 112 km Kishtwar – Sansari stretch, including the road at 8,759 feet, reconnecting the Chenab Valley in Jammu & Kashmir with Himachal Pradesh.

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The road enables transport of essential commodities, agricultural produce, and trade between Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.

The BRO swiftly responded amid heavy snowfall since 22 January and completely cleared it on Friday after a 72-hour operation.

Heavy snowfall of 4 – 5 feet on 22 January blocked the road axis. Fresh snowfall on 25 January further disrupted connectivity. BRO teams on 26 January cleared 2.5 feet of snow, restoring access up to Sansari. However, another spell of snowfall on 27 January again blocked the route.

Intensive clearance operations were launched between 28 to 30 January, and within 72 hours, the BRO cleared 3.5 feet of snow, fully reopening the road to Sansari, said the Organisation.

The mountainous road ensures access to healthcare, education, and emergency services for remote high-altitude communities.

BRO and Project Sampark Officials commended the dedication and resilience of 118 RCC personnel, who worked tirelessly in extreme weather and high-altitude conditions. Their efforts reflect BRO’s unwavering commitment to nation-building, public service, and strategic connectivity, the official said.