Multiple Dead as Avalanche Strikes Zojila Pass, Rescue Efforts Continue

March 28, 2026: At least six people died and five others were injured after a series of avalanches hit the Srinagar-Leh National Highway on Friday. Nearly a dozen vehicles were buried under heavy snow.

Officials said the avalanches occurred between Zero Point and Minimarg near Zoji La in the afternoon. The sudden snow slides trapped multiple cars, causing casualties and injuries.

According to officials, the avalanche hit the vehicle with tremendous force, burying it under deep layers of snow and causing the on‑the‑spot deaths of the occupants. Initial reports varied, with some confirming six fatalities, while others later reported seven dead, reflecting the evolving nature of the rescue efforts. Five passengers were pulled out alive with injuries and were immediately shifted to nearby medical facilities for treatment. One individual remains unaccounted for, and authorities believe the person may not have survived.

This is the exact moment a terrifying snow avalanche strikes near Zero Point at Zojila, trapping multiple vehicles instantly pic.twitter.com/0oCf4JXRTh

— Surajit (@surajit_ghosh2) March 27, 2026

Rescue Operations Underway

VK Saxena said he is closely monitoring the situation. District authorities and senior police officials in Kargil were instructed to go to the site and coordinate rescue work. Emergency teams, including disaster relief forces and the Border Roads Organisation, have been placed on high alert to help clear the highway and assist victims. Rescue operations are ongoing to find survivors and restore traffic.

The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, who is personally monitoring the situation, said, "Heard the unfortunate news of an avalanche at Zoji La. I have directed the DC & SSP of Kargil to visit the spot immediately and mobilise relief and rescue operations. All government agencies, including disaster relief forces and BRO (Borders Road Organisation), have been put on high alert."

Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the deaths on X (formerly Twitter). "Saddened to learn about the tragic death of 7 persons and injuries to 5 after an avalanche hit the vehicle at Zojila pass. My sincere condolences to the bereaved families. All required assistance is being provided to the injured," he wrote.

The Srinagar-Leh Highway, also called NH-1, is a 434-km-long road connecting Srinagar and Leh. It passes through Zojila Pass at 11,575 feet and is known for its scenic views and dangerous terrain. Because of heavy snow and winter conditions, this section of the highway often closes.

To avoid seasonal closures, a major tunnel is being built at Zojila Pass. The single-tube, two-lane tunnel will be 14.2 km long, 9.5 metres wide, and at about 12,000 feet altitude. Once finished, the Zojila Tunnel will provide a safe, all-weather route and is expected to become the longest tunnel in Asia.