NH1: Route, connectivity, transportation

The National Highway-1 (NH1) is a route that links India’s two union territories- Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The highway comprises parts of old NH1A and NH1D and is the northernmost East-West highway in India. Serving as the lifeline of the Ladakh region, it passes through high mountain passes and wraps around rocky mountain sides.

Table of Contents

See also: NH 44: Route details of Srinagar-Kanyakumari highway

NH1: History

The NH1 dates back to the mediaeval times, when it served as a prime trade route for many centuries, passing through the Zoji La pass over the Great Himalayan range. Following the Independence of India, the government of Jammu and Kashmir initiated the construction of a motorable road along a specific route in 1954.

However, the construction process was halted in 1958 after reports of corruption among the contractors and engineers surfaced. In 1960, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) was established by the Indian government to handle strategic border roads and was given the responsibility of completing the road. The BRO managed to complete the road by August 1962.

NH1: Route

The NH1 stretches from Uri in Jammu and Kashmir to Baramulla, Srinagar, Sonamarg, Zoji La, Dras, Kargil and Leh. It crosses the Ladakh Range between Kargil and Leh via the Fotu La pass. The highway is located near the India-Pakistan border.

NH1: Transportation

The Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) operates both deluxe and ordinary bus services between Srinagar and Leh on the NH1 route, which serves as a lifeline for the Ladakh region. This route includes an overnight stop at Kargil. In addition to buses, taxis are also available for the journey from Srinagar. While the Leh-Manali Highway is an alternative route, it traverses even higher mountain passes.

FAQs

Is the NH1 open throughout the year?

The NH1 passes through high mountain passes that are prone to snowfall and landslides, making it difficult to travel during winter. Therefore, the highway is closed during winter and typically remains open from May to November.

Which is the highest pass on the NH1?

The highest pass on NH1 is the Fotu La pass, which is located at an elevation of 4,108 metre (13,478 ft) above sea level.

What is the significance of the NH1?

The NH1 is a lifeline for the Ladakh region as it connects the region with the rest of India. It is also a strategic road as it passes near the India-Pakistan border.

Are there any alternative routes to the NH1?

The Leh-Manali Highway is an alternative route to the NH1, but it involves travelling across even higher mountain passes.

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Priya Banerjee

Priya Banerjee, a writer with a keen eye on the property market, she deciphers the ever-changing trends in residential real estate. Priya excels at simplifying complex real estate terms, making them easy for everyone to understand. Her well-researched advice helps buyers and investors understand complex topics.