Diplomat Correspondent
Kargil, (DD): The Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE), Chandigarh, has issued a Level 4 (Red) avalanche warning for Kargil district, cautioning residents and authorities about the heightened risk of avalanches in the region. The warning remains in effect from February 27 to February 28, 2025.
According to officials, the avalanche threat is particularly severe in snow-covered slopes and mountainous areas prone to slides. The red alert signifies a very high likelihood of avalanches, which could pose a significant danger to life, infrastructure, and transportation routes.
In response to the warning, the Ladakh Disaster Management Authority has urged residents, tourists, and travelers to avoid unnecessary movement in high-risk areas and strictly adhere to safety advisories.
“We strongly advise people to stay indoors and refrain from traveling to avalanche-prone zones. Rescue teams and local authorities are on high alert to respond to any emergencies,” said an official from the Kargil administration.
Meteorologists report that heavy snowfall and strong winds have made conditions ripe for avalanche activity. The current weather forecast for Kargil predicts cloudy skies with intermittent snow showers throughout the day, with a total snowfall accumulation of 15-25 cm expected over the next 24 hours.
Precautionary Measures Advised
Residents and trekkers in Kargil are advised to take the following precautions:
Avoid venturing into snow-covered or steep slopes.
Stay updated through official government alerts and weather reports.
Ensure emergency kits with food, water, and medical supplies are available.
Emergency response teams, including the Ladakh Police, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and local rescue units, have been put on standby to deal with any untoward incidents.
Kargil and other parts of Ladakh are no strangers to deadly avalanches. In recent years, similar warnings have been issued following heavy snowfall, resulting in road blockages, damage to property, and in some cases, loss of lives. Authorities are working proactively to prevent any casualties and minimize disruptions.
The Ladakh Administration has activated disaster response protocols and advised villagers in vulnerable zones to shift to safer locations if required. Local patrol teams have also been deployed to monitor high-risk areas.
With the red alert in effect until February 28, residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow official guidelines. The situation will continue to be monitored, and further updates will be provided as conditions evolve.
For the latest alerts, people can tune in to local radio stations, follow official social media handles of the Ladakh Disaster Management Authority, and stay in contact with local authorities.(DD)