Sonamarg Avalanche Captured Live on CCTV as Snowstorm Pushes Kashmir to Crisis Brink
A terrifying avalanche in Sonamarg, one of Kashmir's premier tourist destinations, was captured live on CCTV cameras, showing massive snow masses racing past residential houses and commercial buildings. The incident occurred late Tuesday night in the Ganderbal district following several days of intense and continuous heavy snowfall across the region.
Miraculous Escape with No Casualties Reported
Despite the avalanche's frightening scale and visual intensity, local officials have confirmed there were no human casualties or significant structural damage reported from the affected area. Traders and residents in Sonamarg described experiencing powerful winds generated by the snowslide, but residential zones were narrowly spared from direct impact.
Official Warnings and Travel Disruptions
The avalanche incident followed multiple official warnings about high avalanche risks across Kashmir's higher altitude regions. The severe weather conditions have forced significant travel disruptions, including:
- Complete cancellation of all flights at Srinagar International Airport
- Closure of key highway and road routes connecting the valley
- Suspension of rail services in affected areas
Authorities Urge Public Caution
With winter conditions intensifying across Jammu and Kashmir, authorities are issuing urgent advisories for residents and tourists. Officials are specifically warning people to:
- Avoid all avalanche-prone zones and higher altitude areas
- Follow weather advisories and government alerts strictly
- Postpone non-essential travel during severe weather episodes
- Maintain emergency supplies and communication devices
The Sonamarg avalanche serves as a stark reminder of nature's power during Kashmir's harsh winter months, even as the region narrowly avoided what could have been a catastrophic disaster.
