Why in news?
In January 2026 the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) carried out a high‑altitude rescue and road restoration mission at Chatergala Pass in Jammu and Kashmir. Heavy snowfall had cut off the Bhaderwah–Chatergala route, leaving civilians and soldiers stranded. BRO engineers braved extreme conditions to clear the road and evacuate those in danger.
Background
Chatergala Pass, also known as Chattergalla, is a mountain pass at an elevation of about 3,200 metres (10,500 feet) in the Jammu region. It connects Bhaderwah in the Chenab valley to Basohli via the town of Bani, serving as an important link for local communities and the security forces stationed in the area. The route is part of the Bhaderwah–Bani–Basohli road network constructed and maintained by the BRO. Winters bring heavy snowfall to this region, often blocking roads and isolating remote areas.
What happened
- Snowfall disruption: Around 23 January 2026 a severe snowstorm dumped 5–6 feet of snow on the Bhaderwah–Chatergala axis. The snow immobilised vehicles and stranded 20 civilians along with 40 troops and their vehicles and equipment.
- Immediate response: The 118 Road Construction Company under the 35 Border Roads Task Force mobilised men and machinery on 24 January. Working around the clock in freezing temperatures and low visibility, teams used snow ploughs and earthmovers to clear a 38 km stretch of the road.
- Evacuation and restoration: By the evening of 25 January, the route was open enough to facilitate safe evacuation. All stranded civilians and troops were escorted to safer areas along with their vehicles and equipment. The operation concluded by 02:30 am on 26 January without any casualties.
About the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)
- Establishment and mandate: The BRO was created on 7 May 1960 to develop and maintain road networks in India’s border areas and friendly neighbouring countries. Since 2015 it has been fully under the Ministry of Defence.
- Role: The organisation builds and maintains strategic roads, bridges and tunnels in mountainous and remote regions to enhance defence preparedness and socio‑economic development. Its motto, “Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam” (Everything is achievable through hard work), reflects its commitment to overcoming challenging terrain.
- Disaster response: BRO personnel often lead rescue and relief operations in border regions affected by landslides, avalanches and floods. Their engineering expertise and dedication enable them to respond quickly during emergencies.
Significance
- Lifesaving operation: The Chatergala Pass mission underscores the BRO’s ability to respond swiftly to natural disasters and protect lives in remote regions.
- Ensuring connectivity: Keeping the Bhaderwah–Bani–Basohli road open is vital for local communities, trade and military logistics. Restoring the route prevented prolonged isolation and shortages.
- Morale and public trust: The successful operation, executed without loss of life, reinforces public confidence in the BRO and highlights the dedication of its engineers and workers.
Source: Press Information Bureau
