The driver and helper of a truck had a miraculous escape when their vehicle fell into a 400-ft gorge near the Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh national highway. The incident occurred as the truck, en route from Sonamarg to Kargil, veered off the road due to the driver losing control. Despite the truck being completely wrecked, both occupants survived the crash, which left commuters and transport operators concerned about the treacherous road conditions.
Officials identified the vehicle as a 14-wheeler trailer with registration number JK01BC/2359. The police and local authorities quickly responded to the scene to investigate the cause of the accident and assess the situation. The driver and helper were taken to the Primary Health Centre in Sonamarg for medical attention, while authorities worked to determine the factors leading to the crash.
Efforts are underway to enhance the Srinagar-Leh National Highway’s all-weather connectivity by constructing a tunnel across the Zojila Pass, expected to be operational by 2028. This tunnel, at a height of approximately 12,000 feet above sea level, will significantly improve transportation to Ladakh and the Amarnath Yatra base camp of Baltal, benefiting tourism, the economy, and military logistics.
