Kargil/Leh: Vehicular movement on several key routes in Kargil and adjoining regions will remain regulated on April 29, with the District Police Kargil issuing a traffic advisory in view of weather conditions and safety concerns, particularly along high-altitude passes.
According to the advisory, movement on the Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri (SSG) road will be allowed only subject to clearance by the Border Roads Organisation. Light motor vehicles, followed by heavy motor vehicles fitted with anti-skid chains, will be permitted from Sonamarg towards Minamarg up to 10:30 AM. No vehicle will be allowed beyond the cut-off time due to the risk of avalanches along the stretch.
On the Kargil–Zanskar (Penzila) axis, two-way traffic will be permitted between 8:00 AM and 12:00 noon, subject to fair weather and road conditions, with anti-skid chains mandatory. Authorities have restricted movement beyond these hours as a precautionary measure.
The Kargil–Leh road has been categorised as open, while the Padum–Darcha–Shinkula route will allow only light motor vehicles with four-wheel drive and anti-skid chains from Darcha towards Kargyak and Padum between 8:00 AM and 12:00 noon. No traffic will be permitted after the specified timing.
The Nimoo–Padum (NPD) road will remain open only on Sunday and Wednesday, with anti-skid chains compulsory for all vehicles using the route.
The advisory coincides with a weather update issued by the Meteorological Centre Leh, which forecasts generally cloudy conditions across Ladakh, with the possibility of brief spells of rain or snow along the Zojila–Drass and Sankoo–Penzila axes on April 29. The outlook indicates variable weather conditions across the region until May 5.
Current weather observations show cloud cover across most districts, with temperatures ranging from around 14.6°C in Leh to 21.5°C in Khaltse. Light precipitation has been reported along the Zojila–Minamarg stretch, while other areas are experiencing partly cloudy to cloudy conditions.
Authorities have advised commuters to check road status updates before travel and to follow instructions issued by traffic police. Tourists have been advised to allow time for acclimatisation and remain updated on weather and road conditions.
Officials have indicated a low risk of flight disruptions but have urged travellers to stay informed given the changing weather pattern. Emergency contact numbers have been issued for the Zojila, Penzila and Shinkula routes to assist commuters.
The administration has emphasised caution while travelling on high-altitude routes, noting that weather conditions can change rapidly and affect road safety.
