Personnel of Indian Army ski patrol team, J&K Police rescue team, local ski guides and the tourism department take part in a snow avalanche rescue exercise drill

Reports indicate that the avalanche occurred amidst the Winter Games, prompting a swift response from the authorities. A joint rescue mission, involving the District Police Baramulla, Tourist Police Gulmarg, and the civil administration, has been launched to locate and retrieve the stranded skiers.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Wednesday asked the Central government to improve the skiing infrastructure in Gulmarg to attract more winter sports lovers to Kashmir.

Gulmarg Ski Resort covered in snow after fresh snowfall, in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday

Authorities have issued avalanche warnings in hilly areas, and motorists are urged to drive cautiously due to slippery roads.