Darcha-Shinkula-Padum road linking Lahaul with Ladakh opened

In a significant achievement, the BRO officially restored the strategically important Darcha-Shinkula-Padum road today, which serves as a vital link between Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh and Zanskar Valley in Ladakh. The road had been cut off for the last one-and-a-half month due to heavy snowfall at the Shinkula Pass, a critical point along the route.

After months of relentless efforts in challenging weather conditions, the BRO team successfully cleared snow and debris to ensure that the road was thrown open for traffic. The completion of this crucial task will significantly enhance connectivity and provide residents with a much-needed link between the two regions.

Rajesh Rai, Chief Engineer of the BRO project, led the formal reopening ceremony. He performed a symbolic puja, marking the occasion with the traditional “green flag" ceremony, signalling the resumption of vehicle movement. “The Shinkula Pass is now open to light vehicles and we are grateful to the dedicated efforts of all personnel involved in this mission,” said Rai, expressing his pride in the BRO workforce.

The road’s reopening is vital for the transportation of essential goods, tourism and emergency services between Lahaul and Zanskar, both of which are geographically isolated for significant parts of the year due to severe weather conditions. While the BRO has made the road passable for light vehicles, it will be up to the district administrations to regulate traffic flow.

Now, civil traffic will resume after the nod from the district administration of Lahaul and Spiti and UT Ladakh.

The Shinkula Pass, located at an altitude of 16,580 feet, is known for its extreme cold and harsh conditions. Despite these challenges, the dedicated efforts of BRO personnel and their tireless work under freezing temperatures has been praised by senior officials. Rajesh Rai congratulated the team members for their perseverance, handing out sweets and gifts to the soldiers, officers and labourers involved in the project.

Himachal Tribune