Srinagar, 11 February 2026, 5:23 PM IST — Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday activated dedicated emergency helpline numbers for Ganderbal district after an avalanche advisory was issued for the higher reaches of the region, urging residents, tourists, and commuters to stay away from vulnerable zones.
The advisory, issued by the district administration, covers higher-altitude and avalanche-prone areas across Ganderbal, which includes the heavily visited Sonamarg tourist corridor. The exact duration of the advisory has not been specified; authorities have said it will remain in force until weather conditions improve and the competent authority lifts the restriction.
Key Highlights:
- Advisory active for: Higher reaches of Ganderbal district, including Sonamarg corridor
- Who is affected: Residents, tourists, transporters, and commuters in the region
- Immediate action: Avoid travel to higher altitudes; dial 112 or PCR Ganderbal numbers in emergencies
What the advisory states
Ganderbal Police has directed the general public, tourists, and commuters to avoid all unnecessary travel towards higher altitudes while the advisory remains active. Authorities have specifically warned against halting or venturing into zones identified as avalanche-prone.
J&K Police stated that people are “strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel towards higher altitudes and avalanche-prone areas until weather conditions improve and the advisory is lifted by the competent authorities.” The force also appealed for public cooperation in preventing any adverse incident.
Emergency helpline numbers activated
The following contact numbers have been made available for emergencies:
- ERSS (Emergency Response Support System): Dial 112
- Police Control Room (PCR), Ganderbal: 9906668731, 9419371774, 9541786731
- Landline numbers: 01942416478, 01942416564
Authorities have asked anyone facing a weather-related emergency in the district to contact these numbers without delay.
Recent avalanche activity in the region
Ganderbal district, particularly the Sonamarg axis, has witnessed repeated avalanche incidents in recent weeks. In late January 2026, a snow avalanche struck the Sarbal area near the New Truck Yard in Sonamarg at around 10:15 PM. While no fatalities were reported, officials confirmed the avalanche entered houses and hotels and struck parked vehicles in the area. Police and State Disaster Response Force teams were deployed to assess the site.
The Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Disaster Management Authority has repeatedly issued avalanche warnings for areas above 2,000 metres across multiple districts, including Ganderbal, Bandipora, and Kupwara, throughout the winter season.
Impact on travel and tourism
Sonamarg remains one of Kashmir’s most frequented winter destinations and a key transit point on the route to Zojila Pass. Travellers planning trips to the region are advised to confirm road conditions with the relevant traffic department before departure. Transport operators have also been asked to exercise caution and comply with administration guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
J&K Police issued an advisory on 11 February 2026 warning the public to avoid higher reaches and avalanche-prone areas in Ganderbal district until weather conditions improve and authorities lift the restriction.
Residents and travellers can dial ERSS 112 for immediate help. The Police Control Room in Ganderbal is reachable at 9906668731, 9419371774, 9541786731, 01942416478, and 01942416564.
Authorities have asked tourists to avoid travelling to Sonamarg and other avalanche-prone higher altitudes in Ganderbal until the advisory is formally lifted. Travellers should confirm road and weather conditions before planning any trip.
A snow avalanche struck the Sarbal area of Sonamarg in late January 2026, entering houses and hotels and hitting parked vehicles. No fatalities were reported. Authorities continue to monitor conditions across the district.
Disclaimer: Readers in affected areas are advised to follow official advisories and contact local authorities for the latest ground-level updates.
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