An avalanche at Zojila Pass on Friday claimed the lives of seven people, including a ten-year-old child, and forced the closure of the Srinagar–Leh National Highway, authorities confirmed on Saturday. Several vehicles were reportedly buried under snow, prompting a large-scale rescue and clearance operation.

Officials said the highway remains closed while snow removal efforts continue, and traffic will be permitted only after the road is deemed safe. The incident has disrupted travel along this key route connecting the Kashmir Valley with Ladakh.

Multiple agencies are involved in the search and rescue operations, including Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Ladakh Police, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local civil administration teams. Authorities are working to locate anyone who may still be trapped under the avalanche debris.

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Avalanches at Zojila Pass, which sits at an altitude of over 11,500 feet, are not uncommon during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and unstable snowpacks. However, incidents of this magnitude are rare and can result in multiple casualties and significant disruption to transportation.

Officials have urged travelers to avoid the highway until further notice and have advised local residents to remain vigilant. Relief and emergency teams continue to coordinate closely to ensure prompt assistance for affected individuals and to clear the snow as quickly as possible.

Authorities have also called for heightened safety measures for vehicles traversing the pass during the winter season, emphasizing that road conditions can deteriorate rapidly in high-altitude regions.

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