Zojila, March 27, KNT: A snow avalanche struck near Zero Point at Zojila Pass on Friday, trapping several passenger vehicles under snow and blocking the strategic road, officials said.
Initial reports indicate that at least three to four vehicles were caught in the avalanche, leaving occupants stranded as heavy snow accumulated along the route.
The incident highlights ongoing risks along the Zojila axis, a key mountain pass connecting Kashmir with Ladakh, where avalanches are common during late winter and early spring.
Rescue teams were rushed to the site soon after the avalanche, and operations are underway to clear snow and reach the trapped vehicles, officials said.
Personnel from local administration and road maintenance agencies including BRO have been deployed, with efforts focused on removing snow debris and ensuring safe evacuation.
Authorities said the road has been temporarily blocked due to the avalanche, halting movement of vehicles along the stretch.
There was no immediate confirmation of injuries or casualties, and officials said details were still being verified.
Eyewitness said that vehicles are partially buried in snow, with people attempting to assist in clearing the route.
Officials have urged travellers to avoid the route until clearance operations are completed and conditions are declared safe.
Zojila Pass, located at a high altitude, frequently witnesses avalanches and sudden weather changes, posing challenges for traffic and emergency response teams.
Further updates are expected as rescue and clearance operations continue at the site. [KNT]
