Heavy snowfall at Khardungla in Ladakh

LADAKH - Heavy snowfall on the world’s highest motorable road in Khardungla Pass in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, poses threat to motorists.

The first stretch of 24 kilometres up till South Pullu checkpoint is metalled; however, the next stretch, which lies about 15 km beyond the pass from South Pullu to North Pullu is mostly loose rock, dirt and snow.

“When we used to walk in winters, cars used to get struck and there is also a lot of danger of sliding here. Sometimes, at night, one to two feet of snowfalls, therefore it is very difficult to even walk around,” said Shamshar Ali, a driver with the Jammu And Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC).

During winters, temperature in the area goes as low as -40 to -45 degrees Celsius, bringing a real danger of snow sliding onto the road.

Locals said that the glaciers around the valley add to the scenic beauty but travelling through the pass is difficult and dangerous.

“It is very difficult for soldiers to cross the road…and when they start from North Pullu and go till South Pullu, then, on the way, they have to face a lot of difficulties. We do not know when the snow will fall…and cars struck on the way and there is no place to back your cars even,” said Subedar Makhan Singh, Indian Army, Ladakh.

Khardungla Pass is located 40 kilometres north of Leh, linking Ladakh with the Siachen Glacier situated at a height of 18,380 feet. (ANI)