Braving the Elements: Indian Army Rescues 214 Passengers Amid Heavy Snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir

Heroic Rescue Operation in Sinthan Pass

Srinagar: In a remarkable display of bravery, Indian Army personnel faced severe weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, to rescue 214 individuals stranded at the Sinthan Pass in Jammu and Kashmir, as reported by officials on Monday.

Following significant snowfall that hindered movement through the Sinthan Pass, which links the Valley to Kishtwar district, soldiers from the 19 Rashtriya Rifles, in collaboration with J&K Police, executed a coordinated rescue mission despite challenging conditions such as continuous snowfall, difficult terrain, and poor visibility.

Officials confirmed that the teams successfully evacuated 214 tourists and local residents, ensuring their safe transport to secure locations, despite the harsh weather and slippery roads.

In the meantime, the higher altitudes of Jammu and Kashmir experienced fresh snowfall over the past 12 hours, with the ski resort of Gulmarg receiving new snow on Monday morning.

Sinthan Pass recorded 12 inches of fresh snow, while Zojila Pass saw 5 inches, and Sonamarg received between 3 to 4 inches during the same period.

The Meteorological Department has predicted rain and snow across Jammu and Kashmir until March 20, with generally overcast skies and intermittent light to moderate precipitation expected, particularly in the mornings and evenings.

From March 21 to 23, dry weather is anticipated in the region, prompting transporters, travelers, and the public to plan their journeys over higher elevations and mountain passes accordingly.

Farmers have been advised to halt agricultural activities until March 20, according to officials from the Meteorological Department.

On Monday, the minimum temperature in Srinagar was recorded at 5.3 degrees Celsius, while Gulmarg and Pahalgam experienced temperatures of minus 2.5 degrees Celsius and 0.8 degrees Celsius, respectively.

In Jammu city, the minimum temperatures were 11.3 degrees, Katra 8.8, Batote 4.4, Banihal 4.5, and Bhaderwah 3.5 degrees Celsius.

Heavy snowfall at Pir Ki Gali has resulted in the closure of the Mughal Road, which connects the Valley with Rajouri-Poonch in the Jammu division.

Traffic department officials have confirmed that the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains open for vehicles today.