At least seven people were killed and five others injured on Friday after a massive avalanche struck the Srinagar–Leh Highway, trapping multiple vehicles under snow on the Ladakh side of Zoji La Pass.
The sudden snow slide buried several passenger vehicles, leading to casualties and leaving many stranded. Following the incident, the strategic highway has been completely blocked, disrupting movement between regions.
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Authorities have initiated extensive rescue and clearance operations to remove accumulated snow and debris, while efforts are underway to restore traffic on the route at the earliest.
The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh said he is closely monitoring the situation and has directed officials, including the Deputy Commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police of Kargil, to reach the site immediately and coordinate relief efforts. He added that all government agencies, including disaster response teams and the Border Roads Organisation, have been placed on high alert.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the fatalities in a post on X, expressing grief over the loss of lives. He extended condolences to the families of the victims and assured that necessary medical assistance is being provided to those injured in the tragedy.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
