SRINAGAR, March 27: At least six people lost their lives on Friday after a powerful avalanche swept across the Zojila Pass, striking a vehicle carrying several passengers. Local officials confirmed that the “massive snow slide” overwhelmed the vehicle, causing immediate fatalities. Five additional passengers sustained various injuries and were successfully evacuated from the debris by first responders who rushed to the high-mountain pass.
Additional Deputy Commissioner-level officials stated that the injured were moved to hospitals for urgent care shortly after being rescued. They maintained that the priority remains the safety of the rescue personnel and the retrieval of all individuals from the affected area. According to the authorities, the vehicle was traveling through the pass when the slope above gave way, highlighting the ongoing volatility of the region’s snow corridors.
The Zojila Pass, which connects the Kashmir Valley to the Kargil and Leh sectors, is frequently closed due to such environmental hazards. Experts affirmed that the pass is a known “avalanche-prone” zone, especially during periods of temperature fluctuation. Officials asserted that despite the inherent dangers, teams are working tirelessly to clear the strategic roadway and restore safe passage for essential services.
Government representatives declared that a full investigation into the circumstances of the slide is underway, though the primary cause appears to be natural displacement. They stated that rescue and clearance efforts will persist until the site is deemed secure. The administration affirmed that updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding the condition of the survivors.
