SRINAGAR: Zojila Pass, the vital mountain corridor connecting Kashmir with Ladakh, recorded an extreme minimum temperature of minus 17 degrees Celsius, marking one of the harshest cold spells of the season.
The sharp drop in temperature has intensified challenges for traffic movement along the strategic route, with officials and locals reporting widespread formation of black ice at multiple stretches.
Authorities monitoring the sector said the temperature plunge was steeper than in previous nights, with strong wind chill further worsening conditions. The freezing weather has hardened accumulated frost, making the road surface highly slippery and slowing the movement of civilian traffic as well as essential service convoys.
Traffic officials deployed in the area said vehicular movement is being allowed in a regulated manner to prevent skidding-related accidents. Mechanical and engineering teams have been stationed at critical points to manage ice formation and assist stranded vehicles when required. Intermittent road closures have also been reported during early morning hours due to hazardous conditions.
Locals familiar with the route warned that the sudden intensification of cold could lead to further disruptions if temperatures continue to fall. Areas surrounding Zojila, including Baltal and Minimarg, have also witnessed a significant dip in night temperatures.
Meteorological inputs suggest that upper reaches of Kashmir and Ladakh are likely to continue experiencing severe cold over the next few days, with little chance of immediate relief. Authorities have advised commuters to strictly adhere to travel advisories and avoid unnecessary movement through the pass, especially during late evening and early morning hours.
