Bhaderwah Avalanche Strands Dozens of Vehicles on Pathankot Highway, BRO Clears Road

February 16, 2026

Bhaderwah: Dozens of vehicles were stranded on the Bhaderwah-Pathankot inter-state highway on Sunday evening after a small avalanche struck the Guldanda section. Executive Magistrate of Bhaderwah, Kamal Preet Singh, confirmed that around 40 vehicles were initially stuck due to the snow slide, but thankfully, no injuries were reported.

BRO Swiftly Restores Connectivity

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) quickly cleared the debris, ensuring the highway was passable within hours. “The BRO came and opened the road, making it passable, so the people who were stranded could leave. By God’s grace, there has been no loss of life or property,” one of the BRO said. Ambulances, police personnel, and civil society volunteers were also deployed to assist stranded motorists and ensure safety.

Tourists and Locals Relieved

Tourists caught in the disruption expressed relief after the road was cleared. One visitor from Rajasthan said, “We were irritated for 2–3 hours while stuck due to snowfall, but now the road is open, and we are happy.” The incident, though disruptive, did not cause damage to the road or require closure of the tourist spot, according to officials.

BRO’s Continued Role in Snow-Prone Areas

Earlier, the BRO had conducted high-altitude rescue and road restoration operations at Chatergala Pass on the Bhaderwah-Chatergala axis, located at 10,500 feet, after heavy snowfall disrupted connectivity. The 118 Road Construction Company of the 35 Border Roads Task Force, under Project Sampark, undertook the operations, highlighting the organisation’s critical role in ensuring safe and reliable transport in snow-affected regions.

Safety and Preparedness Remain Key

Authorities have urged motorists to stay alert during snowfall and follow BRO guidance. The swift response to the Guldanda avalanche underscores the importance of preparedness in snow-prone areas of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring minimal disruption and safety for travelers.