Zojila Pass avalanche toll reaches 7; traffic management under scrutiny
An avalanche at Zojila Pass has claimed seven lives, raising serious questions about traffic regulations and safety along the Ladakh-Kashmir axis, one of India's most dangerous highways. The body of a missing civilian was recovered, bringing the total fatalities to seven. Authorities in Kashmir issued avalanche warnings for Ganderbal and Bandipora districts, advising people to avoid avalanche-prone areas. Local officials, like Mohammad Jaffer Akhoon, Chief Executive Councillor, Kargil, criticized the timing of traffic allowance and the mixing of heavy and light motor vehicles, suggesting these factors contributed to the accident. The incident highlights the challenges of managing traffic in high-altitude, avalanche-prone regions.
Key Points
- An avalanche at Zojila Pass resulted in seven fatalities, prompting scrutiny of traffic management.
- Authorities issued avalanche warnings for Ganderbal and Bandipora districts, advising caution in high-risk areas.
- Concerns were raised regarding the timing of traffic allowance and the mixing of heavy and light vehicles on the dangerous highway.
- The Zojila Pass, at 2,528 metres, is a critical but highly unpredictable link between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Exam Facts
- Location: Zojila Pass, Ladakh-Kashmir axis.
- Elevation: 2,528 metres.
- Affected districts: Ganderbal and Bandipora.
- Official: Mohammad Jaffer Akhoon, Chief Executive Councillor, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Kargil.
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