Zoji

Zoji most commonly refers to Zoji La, a high mountain pass in the Indian Himalayas that connects the Kashmir Valley with Ladakh via the Srinagar–Leh Highway. Located at an elevation of about 3,528 meters (11,575 feet) above sea level, it sits at the western entry to Ladakh, between Sonamarg in the Kashmir Valley and the Drass region.

Geography and climate: Zoji La lies on the main route between Srinagar and Leh and forms part of the Srinagar–Leh corridor. The pass is known for severe winter conditions, with heavy snowfall and avalanche risk that typically render the road impassable for several months each year. When open, the route serves as a crucial link for civilian travel and freight, as well as for military logistics. The road is maintained by the Border Roads Organisation and is prone to closures caused by weather and landslides during the monsoon and spring thaw.

History and significance: The pass has long been a strategic corridor linking the Kashmir plain with Ladakh and Central Asia. It has featured in regional defense planning and development programs due to its role as a primary year‑round route to the high-altitude regions to the north. Its importance has driven ongoing efforts to upgrade the highway and improve reliability of access.

Modern developments: In recent years, there have been proposals and early work on constructing a long tunnel known as the Zoji La Tunnel to bypass the pass and provide all‑weather connectivity between Srinagar and Leh. The tunnel project aims to enhance regional mobility, reduce weather-related closures, and improve strategic transportation capacity in the area.