SRINAGAR 15 May : The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir has announced the reopening of the Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri (SSG) Road for two-way movement of Medium and Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) following the completion of snow clearance operations.
According to an official notification issued by the Divisional Commissioner’s office, the strategic route has been opened from May 15, 2026, subject to strict safety measures and prevailing weather conditions.
District administrations of Ganderbal, Drass and Kargil will assess daily weather advisories before permitting traffic movement and deciding timings for vehicular convoys.
Traffic Police Rural Kashmir has been directed to establish a check-post at Sonamarg to regulate movement, while recovery vehicles will be deployed along vulnerable stretches to assist stranded vehicles.
Authorities have made it mandatory for all vehicles using the route to be fitted with anti-skid chains, with only those within prescribed weight limits allowed after verification at Sonamarg.
Joint control rooms comprising officials from the Traffic, Civil, Police and Mechanical Engineering departments will be set up in Ganderbal, Drass and Kargil to ensure coordination and emergency response.
The Indian Meteorological Department, in coordination with SASE, has been tasked with issuing timely avalanche warnings to all concerned agencies.
Officials have also advised that only mechanically fit, preferably four-wheel-drive vehicles with experienced drivers familiar with mountainous terrain should operate on the route.
Vehicle movement will be regulated in escorted convoys from both ends of the highway to ensure safe passage.
