SRINAGAR, April 20: Umling La, the highest motorable pass in the world, has been reopened for vehicular movement well ahead of its usual schedule, thanks to rapid snow-clearing efforts by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), according to recent media reports.
Perched at an altitude of 19,024 feet in south-eastern Ladakh, close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, the pass serves as a crucial link to Demchok and nearby areas. Its early opening holds strategic importance for military logistics and is expected to benefit tourism in the region as well.
Typically shut during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, Umling La reopens in late spring or early summer after rigorous snow removal operations. However, this year, the BRO successfully restored the route much earlier, improving access for both defence forces and civilians.
Officials from the BRO noted that reopening the pass sooner than expected would significantly support the transportation of troops and essential supplies in a region that often experiences activity along the LAC. Moreover, this move is likely to encourage early tourist visits to the remote Changthang area, which has been drawing more visitors in recent years following the easing of travel restrictions by the central government in certain sensitive zones.
This development comes shortly after the BRO also managed an early reopening of the strategically key Zoji La Pass, situated at 11,500 feet. Connecting the Kashmir Valley with Ladakh via National Highway-1, Zoji La was closed for just 32 days this winter — the shortest closure in recent memory.
With major routes reopening earlier than usual, Ladakh is now better prepared for the upcoming tourist season and improved year-round military readiness.
