Leh/Kargil, Jan 24: The Union Territory of Ladakh witnessed its first major snowfall of the season on Friday, as large parts of Leh and Kargil were blanketed under fresh snow, bringing daily life to a near standstill amid an intense cold wave.
The fresh spell, triggered by an active western disturbance, forced the closure of the Srinagar–Leh National Highway (NH-1, formerly NH-1D), snapping the only surface link between Kashmir and Ladakh. Authorities suspended vehicular movement after heavy snow accumulation and poor visibility made travel unsafe, leaving several vehicles and commuters stranded at different locations.
Snowfall began early in the morning, with Kargil district receiving moderate to heavy snowfall at most places. Higher reaches and isolated areas of Leh district also reported continuous but comparatively lighter snowfall. Officials said very heavy precipitation was recorded along the Zoji La–Drass axis, where chances of continued snowfall exceeded 75 per cent.
Leh city recorded its first snowfall of the winter, turning the region into a snow-covered landscape but also disrupting power supply, communication networks and essential services. The highway closure has halted the movement of goods and essential supplies, adding to the difficulties faced by residents who depend on the route for daily needs.
Traffic authorities said the highway will remain closed until road conditions improve and clearance operations are completed. Teams of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) have been pressed into service to clear snow and restore connectivity. High-altitude passes, including Zoji La, Khardung La, Chang La, Penzila and Namkila, are likely to remain closed for an extended period, with reopening dependent on weather conditions.
District Police Leh issued a public advisory urging residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in high-risk areas. The police advised the use of snow chains for any essential movement and asked people to remain indoors during the ongoing spell.
“Inclement weather and snowfall are being reported across the district. People are advised to avoid unnecessary travel,” the advisory said, while sharing emergency contact numbers for assistance.
In Kargil, continuous snowfall throughout the day disrupted normal activities and prompted authorities to shut the highway as a precautionary measure. Police personnel were deployed at vulnerable stretches to regulate traffic, assist stranded motorists and prevent accidents caused by icy roads.
The Meteorological Centre Leh–Ladakh said snowfall was being reported at most places in Kargil district and at several locations in Leh district, especially higher reaches. The weather office has forecast snowfall at most places in Kargil and many places in Leh during the day.
According to the forecast, light snowfall may occur at a few places on January 24, followed by partly cloudy conditions on January 25 and 26. Another spell of light to moderate snowfall is expected at many places in Kargil district and scattered areas of Leh district on January 27. Weather conditions are likely to improve from January 28, with dry weather expected on January 29 and 30.
Officials also cautioned that the prevailing weather could affect flight operations at Leh airport. Travellers have been advised to check weather and road updates before planning any journey.
Meanwhile, District Police Kargil appealed to residents to cooperate with the administration and follow advisories until weather conditions improve. The Police Control Room (PCR) Kargil can be contacted at 9541902331, while the Emergency Operation Centre Kargil is available at 01985-295052. Dial-122 services remain operational round the clock for public assistance.
