Chatergala: The Border Roads Organisation successfully carried out a Chatergala Pass rescue and road restoration operation in Jammu and Kashmir after heavy snowfall disrupted connectivity in the region.
The operation took place under Project Sampark at Chatergala Pass, located at an altitude of 10,500 ft on the Bhaderwah–Chatergala axis. Heavy snowfall on January 23, 2026, blocked the route and stranded civilians and troops.
On January 24, the 118 Road Construction Company of the 35 Border Roads Task Force began snow clearance early in the morning. The team worked continuously for nearly 40 hours. During this period, personnel cleared about 38 km of road buried under 5 to 6 feet of snow.
As a result, the route reopened by the evening of January 25. This enabled the safe evacuation of 20 stranded civilians. It also allowed the movement of 40 troops of 4 Rashtriya Rifles along with their weapons and stores.
Chatergala Pass rescue completed with zero casualties
The Chatergala Pass rescue concluded at 02:30 hrs on January 26. Notably, the operation reported zero casualties. Officials said the outcome reflected the training and commitment of BRO personnel working in extreme weather and high-altitude terrain.
Meanwhile, the Border Roads Organisation executed the mission in close coordination with the Indian Army. This coordination ensured swift relief and helped restore a critical communication link in the Jammu region.
The BRO said it remained committed to infrastructure resilience and humanitarian assistance in difficult terrains. It added that the operation reaffirmed its motto, “Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam.”
