Tragic Avalanche Claims Lives on Srinagar-Leh Highway: What Happened at Zojila Pass?
Avalanche Hits Zojila Pass, Resulting in Fatalities
Srinagar: A devastating avalanche struck the Srinagar-Leh highway near the Zojila Pass on the Ladakh side, resulting in the deaths of at least six individuals and injuries to five others, as reported by officials on Friday.
Initially, authorities indicated that there were no casualties; however, during the rescue efforts, several vehicles were discovered completely buried under the snow, leading to the tragic discovery of six deceased individuals. Five others were rescued with injuries and transported to a medical facility for treatment.
The avalanche occurred earlier in the day, trapping numerous passenger vehicles in the snow. Following the incident, the highway has been closed, and rescue operations are underway to clear the debris and restore traffic.
The Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH-1, previously NH-1D) is a vital 434-km two-lane route linking Srinagar to Leh, renowned for its breathtaking high-altitude views, traversing the 11,575-ft Zojila Pass.
A tunnel is currently being constructed beneath the Zojila Pass, which will ensure safe, all-weather connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of India once completed.
This tunnel will connect Sonamarg in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir with Drass in the Kargil district of Ladakh. It is designed as a horseshoe-shaped, single-tube, two-lane road tunnel, measuring 9.5 meters in width, 7.57 meters in height, and extending 14.2 km at an altitude of approximately 12,000 feet.
Alongside the already operational Z-Morh Tunnel, this strategically significant project on the Srinagar-Leh highway aims to provide year-round, weather-resistant access to the Ladakh region, enhancing tourism, boosting the economy, and improving logistics for the Indian armed forces.
This initiative is part of a larger plan involving 31 road tunnels (20 in Jammu and Kashmir and 11 in Ladakh) with a total investment of Rs 1.4 lakh crore (around $17.5 billion). Upon completion, it will stand as the longest tunnel in Asia.