The Zojila Pass, known for its treacherous conditions, has long posed significant risks to travelers, especially during the winter months. Historically, the pass would remain closed for nearly five months, isolating Ladakh from the rest of India. This situation was expected to improve with the ongoing construction of the Zojila Tunnel, which aims to provide year-round connectivity between Srinagar, Drass, Kargil, and Leh.
However, a recent avalanche has drastically altered the landscape of expectations. On a fateful Friday afternoon, around 3 PM, the avalanche struck near Zero Point, at an elevation of 3,528 meters (11,649 ft), burying several vehicles traveling from Srinagar to Kargil. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of at least seven people, with five others sustaining injuries. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly, employing JCBs to clear the snow and rescue trapped passengers.
As of now, seven bodies have been retrieved, but two individuals remain unaccounted for. The avalanche also trapped three to four vehicles, effectively blocking the Srinagar-Kargil highway. Authorities have urged travelers to avoid the route until conditions stabilize, emphasizing the ongoing rescue and clearance operations.
The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh expressed deep concern over the tragedy, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in the region. The Zojila Pass is notorious for its steep gradients, narrow corridors, and sudden weather shifts, making it one of the most perilous stretches in the Himalayas.
While the Zojila Tunnel is expected to dramatically transform travel conditions by providing a safe, weather-proof corridor, the recent avalanche underscores the immediate dangers faced by those traversing the pass. The anticipated travel time through the tunnel is expected to be significantly reduced to just 15-20 minutes, compared to the current travel time of three to four hours across the pass.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact number of vehicles trapped under the avalanche, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by winter conditions in the region. As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of travelers and addressing the infrastructural vulnerabilities that have long plagued this vital route.
