Avalanche-hit Srinagar–Leh Highway shut
Avalanche warning issued for Bandipora, Ganderbal
Srinagar: Avalanche-struck Srinagar–Leh National Highway was closed for traffic on Saturday as authorities cleared snow.
Seven people were killed and several vehicles were buried in an avalanche on Friday at the Zojila Pass.
A ten-year-old child was among those killed.
“The highway is closed for traffic, and snow clearance operations are underway,” officials said.
Traffic will be allowed once the road is cleared of avalanche debris, they added.
J-K police, army, CRPF, Ladakh Police, SDRF and civil administration are looking for the missing, they said.
Meanwhile, authorities issued an avalanche warning for two districts in the valley and asked people to remain highly vigilant, officials said.
An avalanche with a medium danger level is expected to occur above 2,400 metres in Bandipora and Ganderbal within the next 24 hours, officials added.
“People are strictly advised to avoid venturing into avalanche-prone areas, including slopes, hilly terrain, and higher reaches, until further orders are issued by the authorities,” the advisory read.
Residents, tourists, and nomadic communities have been asked to adhere to official advisories and cooperate with the administration for their safety.
On Friday, multiple avalanches struck the Zojila Pass in Ganderbal district, trapping several vehicles and resulting in the deaths of seven individuals.
The pass along the Srinagar-Leh national highway connects the Kashmir valley with Ladakh.
