A tragic avalanche at Gulmarg, a renowned skiing and snowboarding destination in Asia, claimed the life of a Russian skier, while a prompt search and rescue operation saved five other skiers and a local instructor. The incident occurred at Khilan Marg, an elevation of approximately 2,730 meters, trapping the group under the snow. Despite valiant efforts from the Gulmarg Ski Patrol and police, one skier lost his life, while the rescued individuals are receiving medical attention. The ongoing Khelo India winter games in Gulmarg, hosting over 800 athletes, remain unaffected by the incident.
Key Points:
- Avalanche Tragedy: An avalanche at Gulmarg’s Khilan Marg resulted in the death of a Russian skier, with six others, including a local instructor, getting trapped under the snow.
- Prompt Search and Rescue Operation: Rescue teams from the Gulmarg Ski Patrol and police swiftly initiated a search and rescue operation to retrieve the trapped individuals.
- Rescue Outcome: Despite valiant efforts, one Russian skier lost his life in the avalanche. The five other skiers and the local instructor were successfully rescued and are receiving medical care.
- Khelo India Winter Games: Gulmarg is currently hosting the 4th edition of the Khelo India winter games with over 800 athletes from various states and Union territories. The ongoing sporting events remain unaffected by the avalanche.
- Safety Measures: Officials assured that the area affected by the avalanche is far from the Kongdori area, where the Khelo India Winter Games are taking place, ensuring the safety of participants.
- Nuzhat Gul’s Statement: Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, confirmed that the incident did not disrupt the Khelo India games, and all athletes returned safely to their accommodations after completing the day’s fixtures.
Significance: The tragic incident highlights the unpredictable nature of avalanches in mountainous regions, emphasizing the importance of timely and effective search and rescue operations. The safety measures in place ensured the well-being of the participants in the ongoing Khelo India Winter Games.
