Srinagar, Feb 2: A Russian skier died after being caught in a massive snow avalanche at the ski resort Gulmarg in north Kashmir, while seven others, including a local guide, were successfully rescued after hours of rescue operation, officials said today.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, an official said around 1200 hours, a snow avalanche struck the Army Ridge in Gulmarg, trapping seven foreign skiers and a local guide. Subsequently, a major rescue operation was carried out by the administration, and helicopter services were deployed to assist in the rescue.
However, after strenuous efforts, all seven trapped individuals were rescued, though one tourist sustained injuries and was taken to a hospital in Srinagar for treatment. After undergoing proper check-ups, the injured tourist was discharged.
Officials said that the avalanche site is located far from the Kongdoori area, where the 4th Khelo India Winter Games are currently taking place. The ongoing sporting events remained unaffected by the incident.
Secretary of the Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, also affirmed that all athletes are safe, and the games are proceeding as scheduled.
The Russian embassy in New Delhi confirmed the death of one Russian national and stated that it was in constant communication with local authorities. The embassy stated, “The avalanche was triggered by heavy snowfall observed in the region since February 17. On February 21, a medium danger level avalanche warning was issued for Baramulla district J&K.”
Sub-district Magistrate of Gulmarg, Altaf Hussain, told Rising Kashmir, that an avalanche struck the ski slopes of Gulmarg. Unfortunately, a Russian skier lost his life to the avalanche, which occurred in the backcountry area of Mount Affarvat Gulmarg on Thursday early afternoon. Seven skiers from Russia were hit by the avalanche, and six have been safely rescued.”
Helicopters were deployed for search and rescue operations, which are still ongoing. The Khelo India games are being held at Gulmarg too, but the location is far from the accident area; therefore, all participants of the Khelo India Winter Games are perfectly safe, he said.
The area where the incident happened is considered prone to avalanches.
In February last year, two Polish skiers also killed in the Afarwat mountain range in Gulmarg. The heights of the Kashmir valley have witnessed several snow avalanches this year.
