Srinagar, May 29: A trailer truck plunged 400 feet into a gorge near Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway on Friday. Remarkably, both the driver and the helper survived the fall.
The incident occurred near Panimatha in the Zojila sector when the truck, en route from Sonamarg to Kargil, reportedly lost control and skidded off the road. Authorities identified the vehicle as a 14-wheeler trailer.
Despite the severity of the accident and the height from which the vehicle fell, both the driver and helper were rescued, which local officials and residents have described as miraculous.
However, the truck was completely destroyed. This incident has raised concerns among travelers and transport operators using the Srinagar-Leh highway, known for its sharp turns, steep slopes, and challenging driving conditions.
Immediately following the accident, police and local officials arrived at the scene to assess the situation and gather information on the causes of the crash. The driver and helper have been admitted to a primary health center in Sonamarg, while authorities are investigating the accident’s causes.
Traffic on the Zojila route is typically heavy during the operational season, and road safety concerns are often heightened due to the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
To ensure year-round accessibility on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, a tunnel is being constructed at Zojila Pass, expected to be operational by 2028. This single-tube, two-lane tunnel will be located at an altitude of approximately 12,000 feet, measuring 9.5 meters in width, 7.57 meters in height, and 14.2 kilometers in length.
The Zojila tunnel aims to boost tourism and the economy while enhancing the logistical capabilities of the armed forces.
Leave a Comment