Large avalanche strikes Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

The Sonmarg region of Jammu and Kashmir was hit by a severe avalanche on April 29, 2024, amidst ongoing heavy rain and snowfall, leading to the closure of critical transport routes including the main Jammu-Srinagar highway.

The event took place in the Sarbal area of Sonmarg, causing considerable alarm as captured in a video where livestock and locals were seen fleeing the rapidly descending snow.

Concurrently, the region faced multiple landslides due to the intense precipitation, notably impacting the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, the primary all-weather route connecting Kashmir with the rest of India.

The highway was obstructed at several points including Mehar, Gangroo, Mom Passi, and Kishtwari Pather in Ramban district, as reported by PTI. The landslides prompted authorities to shut down the road to ensure the safety of commuters and prevent accidents.

In addition to the highway, the Mughal Road, an alternative route connecting Poonch and Rajouri districts with south Kashmir’s Shopian district, also remained closed for the third consecutive day. This closure was primarily due to snow accumulation in Peer Ki Gali and nearby areas, which rendered the road impassable.

The recent weather conditions have significantly increased water levels in rivers, lakes, and streams throughout the region, posing additional risks of flooding and further landslides.

Heavy rains are expected across the region for at least another 24 hours. As a precautionary measure, several schools in areas vulnerable to floods and landslides have been temporarily closed.

References:

¹ Watch: Avalanche, Landslide In Kashmir After Heavy Rain, Snowfall – NDTV – April 29, 2024

Featured image credit: Voice of Valley (stillshot)