Sache Jot reopens after 7-month freeze

In a major relief to residents of tribal Pangi valley, the strategically important Sache Jot pass has been reopened for light motor vehicles after being closed for nearly seven months due to heavy snowfall.

The 4,414-metre-high mountain pass, which connects Chamba to Killar — the sub-divisional headquarters of Pangi valley — had remained inaccessible since November 30 last year.

The reopening of the Sache Jot significantly reduces travel time and distance between Killar and Chamba. With the route now open, residents will cover just 172 km to reach the district headquarters, compared to the arduous detour of over 650 km via Manali or Jammu and Kashmir during the winter closure.

Earlier called Sach Pass, the passageway was renamed Sache Jot last year.

The road’s reopening is expected to greatly improve access to essential services and facilitate smoother movement of goods and people. It also holds promise for boosting local tourism, as the Sach pass — renowned for its breathtaking views and adventurous terrain — draws nature lovers and thrill-seekers from across the region.

The Public Works Department (PWD) deployed several snow-clearing machines and a team of over two dozen workers who toiled for weeks to cut through thick glaciers and restore the road for safe travel. Their relentless efforts ensured the timely reopening of the pass despite challenging conditions. Though, the vehicles on the road started playing since last week, the route was declared open officially on Monday by way of a notification issued by the district administration.

The directive was issued under Section 155 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, based on recommendations from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Civil), Pangi, and the Assistant Engineer of the PWD Sub-Division at Tarella, Killar.

Additional District Magistrate Amit Mehra confirmed that traffic for light motor vehicles is now permitted. However, he emphasised that weather conditions at Sach Pass remain unpredictable, and risks associated with melting glaciers and other natural hazards cannot be overlooked. Hence, the road has been opened with strict safety measures in place.

Specific guidelines have been put in place to ensure safety. Check posts at Bairagarh and Pregran will regulate traffic during adverse weather. All vehicles and passengers will be registered at these points, with monthly data shared with the District Emergency Operations Centre (DEOC). The ADM said authorities would monitor for vehicle overloading and conduct routine inspections.

Mehra urged all travellers to exercise caution and strictly follow safety protocols while navigating the high-altitude route. Continuous monitoring and maintenance will be carried out to ensure the road remains safe and operational.