Srinagar/Ladakh: A devastating avalanche struck the treacherous Zojila Pass on Friday, leaving at least seven people dead and five others injured, while burying several vehicles under massive snow debris and crippling traffic on the vital Srinagar–Leh highway.
The avalanche hit the Ladakh side of the high-altitude pass, forcing a complete shutdown of the strategic highway that serves as a lifeline between Srinagar and Leh. Authorities confirmed that multiple vehicles were caught in the sudden снеw slide, raising fears of more people being trapped beneath the debris.
#BREAKING Massive avalanche struck Zoji La Pass on Srinagar-Leh highway in #Ladakh today, burying 12-15 vehicles under snow. At least 7 people killed, including a child, and 5 injured. Indian Army and rescue teams are conducting intensive operations as casualties may rise.… pic.twitter.com/MEyYruaQWe
— Thepagetoday (@thepagetody) March 27, 2026
Rescue teams from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and local police have launched an intensive operation at the site, racing against time to clear snow and locate survivors. Emergency response units have been put on high alert as efforts continue in harsh weather conditions.
The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh is closely overseeing the situation and has directed Kargil district officials to immediately mobilize resources and coordinate relief and rescue work on the ground.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the casualties, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives and assuring that all necessary medical and logistical support is being extended to the injured.
Saddened to learn about the tragic death of 7 persons and injuries to 5 after avalanche hit the vehicle at Zojila pass.
My sincere condolences to the bereaved families. All required assistance being provided to the injured.
— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) March 27, 2026
The 434-km-long Srinagar–Leh highway, which cuts through the perilous Zojila Pass at an altitude of over 11,500 feet, remains highly vulnerable to avalanches and heavy snowfall during winter months, often disrupting connectivity.
In a long-term solution to these recurring disruptions, work is progressing on the ambitious Zojila Tunnel project—a 14.2-km all-weather passage that aims to ensure seamless, year-round connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country. Once completed, it is expected to rank among Asia’s longest tunnels, significantly improving safety and travel reliability in the region.
