Tourist dies, 9 missing after avalanche hit Khardun La in Ladakh

Srinagar, Jan 18: A tourist was killed and nine others are missing after their vehicle was buried under a huge snow avalanche at Khardung La pass, the worlds highest motorable road in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, official sources said.

They said a vehicle came under huge snow avalanche at Khardung La pass, about 18400 feet above sea level, in Leh this morning.

They said ten passengers, mostly tourists, were buried under several feet of snow. However, rescue teams were immediately rushed from nearby areas, they said adding helicopters have also been pressed into service for rescue operation.

Body of one of the tourist has been recovered so far and massive search operation was going on when the reports last came in. The identity of the deceased was being ascertained, they added.

The Met department has already issued a warning for moderate to heavy snowfall during the next about a week from tomorrow.