DRASS, LADAKH – A devastating natural disaster struck the treacherous Zojila Pass on Friday, leaving seven people dead and several others injured after a massive avalanche swept across the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
The incident occurred near the high-altitude Zero Point area, a notorious stretch of the highway known for its extreme weather and difficult terrain. Authorities confirmed that a passenger vehicle was directly hit by a wall of snow, while several other vehicles were buried under the debris.
Details of the Tragedy
According to senior officials, the force of the snow was so immense that six occupants of the primary passenger vehicle died instantly. A seventh victim later succumbed to their injuries.
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Fatalities: 7 confirmed dead.
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Injuries: 5 individuals rescued with severe injuries.
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Infrastructure: The Srinagar-Leh Highway remains blocked as tons of snow and debris cover the roadway.
“A massive mass of snow crashed down onto the passenger vehicle with incredible force,” stated a senior administrative official. “Rescue teams were dispatched immediately, but the challenging terrain and freezing temperatures have made the operation extremely difficult.”
Emergency Response and Rescue
Upon receiving reports of the slide, specialized rescue teams, supported by the local administration and security forces, launched a large-scale operation.
The five injured survivors were extricated from the mangled remains of the vehicle and shifted to nearby medical facilities. Health officials report that they are receiving intensive treatment for trauma and cold-related complications.
Current Status
As of Friday evening, search and rescue operations remain actively underway. Teams are currently probing the snowbanks to ensure no other commuters remain trapped in the buried vehicles.
Travelers are advised to avoid the Zojila Pass sector until the Border Roads Organization (BRO) declares the stretch safe for transit. The local administration has expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and is providing full cooperation to ensure the swift recovery of all affected individuals.
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