Six killed, five injured in avalanche at Zoji La pass in Ladakh
Six people died and five were injured in a massive avalanche at Zoji La pass in Ladakh, disrupting Srinagar-Leh highway traffic and prompting rescue operations.
Srinagar (The Uttam Hindu): At least six people lost their lives and five others were injured after a massive avalanche struck the Zoji La pass in Ladakh on Friday. The incident occurred on the Ladakh side of the Srinagar–Leh highway, where several vehicles were buried under snow.
Initially, officials had not confirmed any casualties. However, during rescue operations, six bodies were recovered from vehicles trapped beneath the snow. The injured were safely rescued and admitted to hospital for treatment.
Highway closed, rescue operations underway
According to reports, the avalanche struck suddenly during the day, trapping multiple passenger vehicles on the highway. Following the incident, the highway has been closed, and debris clearance work is ongoing at a fast pace.
The 434-km Srinagar–Leh highway is strategically and economically important, passing through the Zoji La pass at an altitude of around 11,575 feet. Due to harsh weather and frequent snowfall, traffic disruptions are common in this region.
Zoji La tunnel project to ensure all-weather connectivity
To tackle such challenges, a major tunnel project is underway beneath the Zoji La pass. The tunnel will connect Sonamarg in Jammu & Kashmir to Dras in Ladakh.
Once completed, the 14.2-km-long tunnel will enable safe, all-weather connectivity to Ladakh. It is part of a larger infrastructure push involving 31 road tunnels across the region, aimed at improving tourism, boosting the local economy, and strengthening military logistics.
The Zoji La tunnel is expected to become one of the longest tunnels in Asia upon completion.