7 Dead, 5 Injured As Avalanche Hits Srinagar-Leh Highway’s Zojila Pass, Authorities Respond
Avalanche at Zojila Pass kills 7, injures 5; highway blocked, rescue and relief operations ongoing.
At least seven people were killed and five others injured on Friday after a massive avalanche struck the Ladakh side of the Zojila Pass, along the Srinagar-Leh highway. The snow slide buried several passenger vehicles, leaving travelers trapped under the debris and prompting an immediate emergency response from authorities.
The highway, a critical 434-kilometre route connecting Srinagar and Leh, has been completely blocked due to the incident. Rescue and clearance operations have been launched on a large scale, with teams from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and local police working to remove snow and locate anyone still trapped. Officials warned that heavy snowfall and the treacherous terrain make this section particularly prone to such accidents during the winter months.
Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, who is personally monitoring the situation, directed the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of Kargil to visit the site immediately and oversee relief operations. “All government agencies, including disaster relief forces and BRO, have been put on high alert,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of coordinated rescue efforts.
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Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the casualties on X (formerly Twitter), offering condolences to the bereaved families and assuring that all necessary assistance was being provided to the injured. His message underscored the central government’s active engagement in supporting local authorities during the crisis.
The Zojila Pass, situated at an altitude of 11,575 feet, is a crucial but challenging section of National Highway 1, known for its scenic views and frequent winter closures. To address the seasonal vulnerabilities, a major tunnel project is underway at the pass. The Zojila Tunnel, once completed, will be a 14.2-kilometre-long, two-lane tunnel situated at approximately 12,000 feet, aimed at providing a safe, all-weather link between Ladakh and the rest of India.
Authorities continue to assess the situation as rescue teams work tirelessly to restore access along the highway. Travelers are advised to avoid the area until clearance operations are completed, and the government has urged citizens to remain cautious amid ongoing adverse weather conditions.
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