Syed Hashim Rizvi

Kargil, Jan 17: The snowfall in parts of Ladakh has rendered the Matayan to Kharboo stretch near Drass extremely slippery, leading to vehicles skidding off the road at multiple points, officials said on Saturday.

Authorities said that due to snowfall, road conditions deteriorated significantly, particularly on the Drass axis and Zojila Pass, posing serious risks to vehicular movement. Drivers have been advised to use anti-skid chains and maintain extreme caution while negotiating the stretch.

Amid heavy snowfall and poor visibility at Zojila, personnel from Police Post Minamarg ensured the safe passage of an ambulance carrying a patient, preventing any delay in medical assistance despite adverse weather conditions.

In another incident, personnel from Police Station Drass, led by the Station House Officer, assisted several vehicles that had skidded off the road due to slippery conditions. Timely intervention by police helped avert mishaps and restore traffic movement on the affected stretches.

Police have urged commuters to strictly adhere to official travel advisories, avoid unnecessary movement during snowfall, and ensure that vehicles are properly equipped with anti-skid chains while travelling through snowbound areas.

Authorities reiterated that cooperation from commuters is essential to ensure safety and smooth traffic regulation during inclement weather conditions in the region. [KNT]