Jammu: The Border Roads Organization has completed snow removal work on National Highway 701A (Old Mughal Road) and two sections of it were opened early on Friday. These roads usually open around the end of March.The BRO team cleared the stretch from Bufliaz (Poonch) to Peer Ki Gali (Poonch) under the Sampark project and from Shopian to Peer Ki Gali under the Beacon project. “MoRTH Director General VK Rajawat and CE Project Sampark and Beacon were present at Peer Ki Gali during the opening of the road,” Defense PRO Lieutenant Colonel Suneel Bartwal said on Friday.“Snow remains on adjoining slopes in some vulnerable locations. “Due to the current weather conditions, the possibility of an avalanche cannot be ruled out,” Lieutenant Colonel Batwal said, urging commuters to adhere to traffic warnings issued by the Poonch and Shopian district administrations.An official spokesperson advised commuters to take extra care when traveling on this stretch of road. “Operations may be adjusted based on weather conditions and authorities’ safety assessments,” the spokesman said.“DG MoRTH commended all those involved in the snow clearing operation in extremely adverse weather conditions. He said route survey and widening plan of NH-701A is on,” Colonel Batwal said. “During the visit, DF MoRTH also reviewed the work progress of NH-144A in all kits and gave instructions to expedite the progress,” he added.
