Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 9: A major tragedy was averted today at Zojila Pass along Srinagar-Leh highway after a shooting stone struck a tourist vehicle.
A tourist cab, Innova bearing registration number JK01AU-9926, was returning towards Sonamarg after tourists visited the Zero Point area when the incident occurred.
An official said that due to heavy traffic congestion on the highway, several vehicles had halted near the vulnerable Pani Matha stretch.
“During the stoppage, the tourists along with the driver reportedly stepped out of the vehicle to enjoy the scenic surroundings and assess the traffic situation ahead. Moments later, a huge boulder suddenly rolled down from the hillside and struck the parked vehicle, causing significant damage to it,” he said.
None of the tourists was inside the vehicle when the boulder hit it and all the tourists along with the driver escaped unhurt.
The incident created panic among commuters and tourists present in the area, while locals and fellow travelers immediately rushed to the spot.
Authorities have advised commuters to remain cautious while travelling through landslide-prone and shooting stone vulnerable areas along mountain highways. Travelers have also been urged to avoid unnecessary halts at unsafe locations on the Srinagar-Leh road.
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