Srinagar, Mar 27 (KNO): At least five persons were killed and seven others sustained injuries when a snow avalanche struck near Dayal Pass along the Zojila axis in Kargil sub-division on Friday, officials said.
An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that three to four passenger vehicles were caught in the avalanche, leaving them buried under snow and debris and forcing the closure of the strategic Srinagar-Leh National Highway.
He said rescue teams were immediately rushed to the spot, and a joint operation was launched to evacuate the trapped passengers.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal Khalil Poswal, along with SSP Kargil and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kargil, reached the site to supervise the rescue efforts.
The SSP told reporters that incident happened in the afternoon. “Rescue operations are on. Twelve persons came under the avalanche, of which five have died, while seven others sustained injuries, they are undergoing treatment,” he added.
Officials said teams from Beacon, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), police, and local administration are engaged in clearing the road and retrieving vehicles buried under the snow.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, said he has directed the concerned officials to ensure immediate rescue and relief measures. “All government agencies, including disaster relief forces and BRO, have been put on high alert. I am personally monitoring the situation,” he said.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh expressed grief over the incident, stating, “Saddened to learn about the tragic deaths and injuries after avalanche hit vehicles at Zojila Pass. My sincere condolences to the bereaved families. All required assistance is being provided to the injured.”
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in an avalanche at Zojila Pass today. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured—(KNO)