Srinagar: A massive avalanche hit a group of foreign skiers in Gulmarg, a popular ski destination in Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday afternoon, killing one and leaving another missing. Five other skiers were rescued and are being treated in a local hospital.
The avalanche struck the Kongdoori slopes, trapping several skiers, the officials said. The foreigners had gone to the ski slopes without local residents, they added. Personnel of the Army and a patrolling team of the Jammu and Kashmir administration are carrying out the rescue-cum-search operations.
The avalanche occurred amid the Khelo India Winter Games at the same place. However, the officials said that all the athletes were safe and the events were running as per schedule.
The identity of the deceased and the missing skier is yet to be ascertained. Sources said that the deceased was of Russian nationality. The authorities have advised the tourists and locals to avoid venturing into the avalanche-prone areas.
