Banihal Pass?
VerifiedAnswer: Joins Leh & Kashmir
Explanation:
The Banihal Pass is a crucial mountain pass located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir, India. This strategic pass serves as a vital transportation corridor connecting the Kashmir Valley with the Jammu region, making it an essential link for trade, commerce, and travel in the region.
Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,832 meters (9,291 feet) above sea level, the Banihal Pass connects the Kashmir Valley in the north with the Jammu plains in the south. The pass gets its name from the nearby town of Banihal, which serves as an important transit point for travelers and goods moving between these two regions.
One of the most significant developments related to this pass is the Jawahar Tunnel, which was constructed to provide year-round connectivity through the Banihal Pass. Before the tunnel's construction, the pass would often become impassable during winter months due to heavy snowfall, effectively cutting off Kashmir from the rest of India for several months each year.
The Jawahar Tunnel, inaugurated in 1956 and later replaced by a newer tunnel in 1962, runs for about 2.5 kilometers through the Banihal Pass. This engineering marvel ensures continuous road connectivity between Srinagar and Jammu throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions. The tunnel has been instrumental in maintaining the economic lifeline of Kashmir Valley by facilitating the movement of essential supplies, tourists, and local residents.
From a geographical perspective, the Banihal Pass represents a natural gateway through the formidable Pir Panjal mountain range. The pass has been used for centuries as a trade route, connecting the rich valleys of Kashmir with the markets of northern India. Its strategic location has made it historically significant for military movements and administrative control over the Kashmir region.
Today, National Highway 44 (formerly NH-1A) passes through the Banihal Pass via the Jawahar Tunnel, making it the primary road link between Kashmir and the rest of India. This highway carries thousands of vehicles daily, including tourist buses, commercial trucks, and private vehicles, highlighting the pass's continued importance in modern times.
