J&K2 dead as snow avalanches hit Ganderbal’s Sarbal

Ganderbal, Jan 12 (KNS): Two labourers died after an avalanche hit Sarbal area of Sonamarg in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Thursday, officials said here.

An official said that the avalanche hit the Sarbal area close to Nilgrath where Hyderabad-based Mega Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL) is executing work on the Zojila Tunnel.

He said that a rescue operation was launched by police, State Disaster Response Force, Army, Beacon and MEIL teams on the site to clear the area.

However, initially one body of labourer was recovered from the spot and was shifted to hospital for legal medical formalities while rescue operation was on till this evening which led to the recovery of another body.

He also said that the general public was advised to remain cautious and not to venture out in slopes, hilly areas, or avalanche-prone areas till the weather improves.

Notably, the vehicular movement towards Sonamarg and Nilgrar has been stopped till weather improves.

On Wednesday, January 11, the Upper reaches of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, including the health resort of Sonamarg, Gumri Zojila Pass, received heavy snowfall. (KNS)