Srinagar-Leh Highway Closed After Avalanche Claims Seven Lives
The strategic Srinagar-Leh National Highway has been closed for vehicular traffic following a deadly avalanche incident at the Zojila Pass, which claimed the lives of seven people and buried several vehicles. Snow clearance operations are currently underway.
The Chenab Times has learned that the avalanche struck the Zojila Pass on Friday, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals, including a ten-year-old child. Numerous vehicles were reportedly buried under the snow and debris.
Officials confirmed the closure of the highway, stating that traffic operations have been suspended to facilitate ongoing snow clearance efforts. They indicated that the road will be reopened only after it has been cleared of all avalanche debris and deemed safe for passage.
A multi-agency rescue operation is actively underway to search for any individuals who may still be missing. Personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Indian Army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Ladakh Police, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the civil administration are involved in the search and rescue efforts.
The Chenab Times News Desk