Braving a fierce snowstorm, sub-zero temperatures and pitch-dark night hours at an altitude of over 10,500 feet, personnel of the Border Roads Organisation scripted a remarkable rescue operation in Bhaderwah sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In a nearly 40-hour-long relentless operation, BRO teams successfully rescued 60 people, including 40 Army jawans and 20 civilians, who were trapped at the Chattergala Pass along the Bhaderwah–Pathankot interstate highway. Troops of 4 Rashtriya Rifles along with SOG personnel deployed at the Chattergala checkpoint — the highest point on the highway — were caught off guard by a sudden and intense snowstorm. Within hours, five to six feet of snow accumulated, cutting off all movement. Strong winds and freezing conditions worsened the situation, leaving the stranded jawans and civilians battling extreme weather in the high-altitude region. Responding swiftly, teams of BRO’s 118 RCC, Project BEACON, led by BR2 Raj Kumar Mandal, launched an emergency rescue mission immediately after receiving information from the District Magistrate Doda. Despite continuous snowfall and hazardous night conditions, BRO pressed men and heavy machinery into service, clearing nearly 38 kilometres of snow-bound highway in record time. Speaking about the operation, the BRO officer said that rescuing every stranded person was the top priority, and the mission was completed successfully against all odds. All 40 Army jawans and 20 civilians were rescued safely, highlighting the unwavering commitment and courage of BRO personnel working in some of the most hostile terrains in the country. It is pertinent to mention that the region has witnessed tragedy in the recent past. On January 22, 10 Army soldiers lost their lives and 11 were injured when their bulletproof vehicle skidded off an icy road and plunged into a deep gorge near Khanni Top along the Bhaderwah–Chamba road. Once again, the BRO’s heroic effort stands as a testament to its motto — “Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam” — Nothing is impossible through hard work.