Srinagar, May 15: The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir on Thursday announced the reopening of the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road for two-way movement of Medium and Heavy Motor Vehicles after extensive snow clearance operations along the strategic highway.
According to an official order issued by the Office of the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, traffic movement on the route has been permitted from May 15, 2026, with authorities enforcing strict safety measures in view of weather and terrain conditions.
Daily Weather Assessment Before Traffic Movement
The notification stated that the district administrations of Ganderbal, Drass and Kargil will conduct daily reviews of weather advisories before allowing vehicular movement on the highway. Officials will also determine traffic timings depending on road and weather conditions.
To regulate smooth movement, the Traffic Police Rural Kashmir has been instructed to establish a dedicated traffic check-post at Sonamarg. Recovery vehicles and emergency assistance teams will remain deployed at vulnerable stretches of the road to help stranded commuters and ensure uninterrupted traffic flow.
Anti-Skid Chains Mandatory for Vehicles
Authorities have made anti-skid chains compulsory for all vehicles travelling on the SSG Road due to slippery conditions in upper reaches. Only vehicles complying with the prescribed weight limits will be allowed to proceed after mandatory weighing procedures at Sonamarg.
The administration further directed that vehicles operating on the route should preferably be four-wheel drive and mechanically fit for mountainous terrain. Drivers have also been advised to exercise caution and ensure they are experienced in navigating hilly roads.
Joint Control Rooms Set Up for Emergency Coordination
To strengthen coordination and emergency response mechanisms, joint control rooms involving officials from the Traffic, Civil Administration, Police and Mechanical Engineering Departments will be established in Ganderbal, Drass and Kargil districts.
Officials said the Indian Meteorological Department will remain in coordination with the Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) to issue advance avalanche warnings and weather alerts to all concerned agencies.
Convoy-Based Movement for Passenger Safety
The order added that designated vehicles travelling on the highway will move in escorted convoys from both ends of the road as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety and avoid traffic disruptions in snow-prone zones.