A significant avalanche struck the popular Sonamarg tourist resort in Jammu and Kashmir late on Tuesday night, creating a dramatic scene captured on surveillance cameras. Officials have confirmed that despite the massive snowslide engulfing buildings, there were no reports of any loss of life or injuries.
Timing and Location of the Avalanche
The avalanche occurred at precisely 10:12 PM on Tuesday in the central Kashmir district of Ganderbal, targeting the Sonamarg resort area. This incident comes amid recent heavy snowfall across the valley, with Sonamarg and surrounding regions experiencing moderate to heavy precipitation over the past 24 hours.
CCTV Footage Reveals the Scale
Closed-circuit television cameras installed in the area recorded the terrifying moment when the avalanche descended, showing vast amounts of snow rapidly covering structures and landscapes. The visual evidence highlights the intensity of the natural event, which officials described as massive in scale.
Prior Warnings and Safety Measures
Authorities had issued a high-danger avalanche warning for the district just one day earlier, on Monday, alerting residents and tourists about potential risks. This proactive advisory likely contributed to enhanced preparedness and safety protocols in the region.
The timely warnings and effective response mechanisms appear to have played a crucial role in preventing casualties, demonstrating the importance of meteorological alerts in mountainous areas prone to such natural hazards.
Current Situation and Monitoring
Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, assessing any potential damage to infrastructure and ensuring the safety of local communities and visitors. The absence of casualties in this event is being viewed as a positive outcome given the avalanche's substantial size and the resort's popularity among tourists.
Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold," is a major tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir, attracting visitors throughout the year for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. This incident underscores the challenges of managing tourism in regions vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.
