Indian Army Conducts Rescue Operation Amid Heavy Snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir

Rescue Mission in Sinthan Pass

Srinagar, March 16: Troops from the Indian Army demonstrated remarkable bravery as they navigated severe weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, to rescue 214 individuals stranded at Sinthan Pass in Jammu and Kashmir, officials reported on Monday.

“Following significant snowfall that hindered movement through the Sinthan Pass, which links the Valley to Kishtwar district in the Jammu division, soldiers from the 19 Rashtriya Rifles, in collaboration with J&K Police, executed a coordinated rescue operation despite challenging conditions,” officials stated.

“In spite of the adverse weather and slippery roads, the teams successfully evacuated 214 tourists and local residents, ensuring their safe transport to secure locations,” they added.

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.

During this period, Sinthan Pass recorded 12 inches of snow, Zojila Pass received 5 inches, and Sonamarg saw 3 to 4 inches of fresh snowfall.

The Meteorological Department has predicted rain and snow across Jammu and Kashmir until March 20.

Generally, cloudy weather with intermittent light to moderate rain and snow is expected at various locations, particularly in the mornings and evenings until March 20.

“From March 21 to 23, dry weather is anticipated in Jammu and Kashmir. Travelers and transporters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly, especially over higher elevations and mountain passes,” officials cautioned.

“Farmers are recommended to halt agricultural activities until March 20,” added the MET department officials.

The minimum temperature recorded in Srinagar was 5.3 degrees Celsius on Monday, while Gulmarg and Pahalgam experienced temperatures of minus 2.5 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.

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.

According to traffic department officials, the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains open for vehicles today.