27/03/2026
Seven people were feared dead and at least five others injured after an avalanche struck Zoji La Pass on Friday, hitting the Srinagar–Leh National Highway.
The avalanche hit near Zero Point in the afternoon when a convoy of passenger vehicles was moving along the snow-covered road at an altitude of around 3,580 metres. A massive volume of snow buried several vehicles, leaving many others stranded.
Initial reports said one vehicle was thrown off the road, while casualties were reported from three to four vehicles trapped under snow.
Authorities launched rescue operations immediately, with the Deputy Commissioner and SSP of Kargil rushed to the spot. All agencies, including disaster relief forces and the Border Roads Organisation, have been put on high alert. The highway has been closed for traffic.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed condolences and said assistance is being provided to the injured.