A Russian national died and six others were rescued on Thursday after an avalanche hit the upper reaches of Kashmir’s Gulmarg while they were skiing. “Despite the valiant efforts of the rescue team, one Russian skier tragically lost his life due to the avalanche. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time,” the local administration said in a statement. VIDEO | Army conducts rescue operation in J&K's Gulmarg after an avalanche hit a ski-resort earlier today. pic.twitter.com/6Y8Z7eJF1n — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 22, 2024 Officials said the avalanche site is located far from the Kongdoori area, where the Fourth Khelo India Winter Games are currently underway. The ongoing sporting events remain unaffected by the incident. The Tourism Department’s Gulmarg Ski Patrol and the Jammu and Kashmir Police rescued five Russian skiers and a guide from the area known as Army Ridge. One of the rescued skiers sustained minor injuries, but is in stable condition and is receiving treatment at a local hospital. The Russian embassy in New Delhi confirmed that one Russian national was dead, and said it was in constant touch with local authorities. In a release, the embassy said, “The avalanche was triggered by the heavy snowfall observed in the region since February 17. On February 21, a medium danger level avalanche warning was issued for Baramulla district, J&K.” 📌 The Embassy of #Russia in #India maintains constant contact with the local authorities. The avalance was triggered by the heavy snowfall observed in the region since February 17. On February 21, a medium danger level avalanche warning was issued for #Baramulla district, J&K. — Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) February 22, 2024 Meanwhile, former J&K chief minister Omar Abdullah said on X, “.It appears the skiers were skiing off the piste or groomed slopes in the ‘back country’. Days like today remind us that while skiing is fun, the fresh powder exhilarating & the visuals spectacular, skiing is not without its dangers & risk to lives. Praying that all the missing skiers are found alive & the reports of a casualty end up being unfounded.” – With ENS, New Delhi
