The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir has announced the reopening of the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road for two-way traffic movement of Medium and Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) following snow clearance operations.
According to an official notification issued by the Office of the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, the road has been declared open from May 15, 2026, subject to strict safety guidelines and weather-related conditions.
The notification stated that the district administrations of Ganderbal, Drass and Kargil will review weather advisories on a daily basis before permitting vehicular movement and deciding traffic timings.
Authorities have directed the Traffic Police Rural Kashmir to establish a traffic check-post at Sonamarg to ensure smooth traffic flow, while recovery vans will remain stationed along the upper stretches of the highway to assist stranded vehicles.
The administration has also made it mandatory for vehicles travelling on the SSG Road to be fitted with anti-skid chains. Officials said only vehicles within the prescribed weight limits will be allowed after proper weighing at Sonamarg.
The order further stated that joint control rooms comprising officials from Traffic, Civil, Police and Mechanical Engineering Departments will be established in Ganderbal, Drass and Kargil for coordination and emergency response.
The Indian Meteorological Department has been asked to coordinate with SASE and issue avalanche warnings in advance to all concerned agencies.
Authorities also advised that vehicles using the road should preferably be four-wheel drive and mechanically fit, while drivers must be experienced and familiar with hilly terrain.
The movement of designated vehicles will take place in escorted convoys from both head and tail ends for safety purposes.
