Zojila Pass

Context-

The Zojila Pass is a strategically significant mountain pass located in the Indian-administered region of Jammu and Kashmir. It is part of the Srinagar-Leh highway (NH 1D), which connects Srinagar in the Kashmir Valley with Leh in Ladakh. Due to its high-altitude location, Zojila Pass is often closed for several months during the harsh winter due to heavy snowfall, making it a critical area for improving connectivity, especially for military and civilian purposes.

About Zojila Pass:

• Zojila Pass, also known as ‘The Mountain Pass of Blizzards’, is a strategic pass that connects Kashmir Valley to Ladakh.
• It is located on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway (NH-1) at a height of 11,650 feet.
• The pass remains closed for almost half of the year due to heavy snowfall.
• History:
  • It was the site of the Indo-Pakistan War of 1947-48.
  • It was captured by militias aided by the Pakistan Army in 1848, with the ultimate aim of capturing Ladakh.
  • However, the pass itself was captured by the Indian Army on 1st November 1948 in an assault codenamed Operation Bison.

Key Features of Zojila Pass:

1. Geographical Location:
   • Zojila Pass is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,528 meters (11,575 feet) above sea level.
   • It lies on National Highway 1D, which connects Srinagar (in the Kashmir Valley) to Leh (the capital of Ladakh).
   • The pass is located in the Zanskar Range of the Himalayas.
2. Strategic Importance:
   • Zojila Pass holds immense strategic importance for both civilian transportation and military logistics, as it is the primary route for vehicles and supplies to and from Ladakh.
   • The pass is vital for the Indian Army, especially in maintaining supply lines and troop movement in the border areas, given Ladakh’s proximity to international borders with China and Pakistan.
   • It is considered one of the most treacherous and difficult passes to navigate, particularly during the winter months, when it is prone to heavy snowfall and freezing conditions.
3. Challenges:
   • Harsh Weather: The weather around Zojila Pass is unpredictable, with heavy snow, fog, and freezing temperatures, making the pass difficult to navigate for much of the year.
   • Narrow and Curvy Roads: The road is narrow and winding, making it perilous for travel, especially during winter.
   • Accessibility: The pass is often closed during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snow, cutting off road access between Kashmir and Ladakh.
4. Zojila Tunnel Project:
   • The Zojila Tunnel, an ongoing infrastructure project, is being built to make the Zojila Pass road accessible throughout the year. This tunnel will be the longest and highest tunnel in India once completed.
   • The tunnel will pass beneath Zojila Pass and significantly reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh, while also providing all-weather connectivity.
   • It is expected to boost economic development in Ladakh by facilitating the movement of goods and people, and improve access to essential services.
5. Historical Significance:
   • The pass has historically been a route of importance for trade and military movements. It was used by various ancient rulers and empires for connecting the Kashmir Valley with Ladakh and Central Asia.
6. Economic and Cultural Impact:
   • Beyond its strategic role, Zojila Pass also has an impact on the economy of the region. Improved connectivity could lead to better trade and tourism between Ladakh, Kashmir, and other parts of India.
   • The pass is a key route for pilgrims heading to various religious sites in Ladakh, including Tsomoriri Lake and the Hemis Monastery.

Summary of Key Points:

• Location: Jammu & Kashmir (Kashmir Valley to Ladakh)
• Altitude: 3,528 meters (11,575 feet)
• Strategic Importance: Vital for national security and military logistics, and a major trade route.
• Challenges: Harsh weather, difficult terrain, and road closures in winter.
• Zojila Tunnel: Under construction to provide all-weather connectivity.

CBL Practice Questions for Prelims –

The Zojila Tunnel, under construction near Zojila Pass, is primarily aimed at which of the following?

a) Enhancing tourism in Ladakh
b) Providing all-weather road connectivity between Srinagar and Leh
c) Facilitating international trade with China
d) Reducing the time for pilgrimage routes

Answer: b) Providing all-weather road connectivity between Srinagar and Leh

CBL Mains Practice Question –

Examine the potential environmental and socio-economic impacts of the Zojila Tunnel project on the surrounding regions. In your view, how should India balance development with environmental conservation in such fragile ecosystems?

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