A highway and tunnel in Kashmir state, northern India, were buried under an avalanche today (January 22) prompting a rescue operation by local authorities.

An official said that the avalanche has blocked both entrances of the Jawahar tunnel connecting the Srinagar-Jammu highway from Qazigund side, forcing the authorities to suspend the traffic movement on the highway.

He said that a rescue operation has been launched in the area. There was no immediate report of any loss of life or injuries. The area has been facing heavy snowfall for the past several days.

Traffic department officials said landslides have hit the strategic highway at some places in the Ramban district, including Digdol, Panthal, Magarkote and Khoni Nallah.

Avalanche hits  in Dachan area Kishtwar jammu region in India.

The Jammu-highway was closed on Tuesday following landslides and snowfall and reports of an avalanche hitting the highway in Dachan Area Kishtwar. A team has been rushed to take stock.

Traffic department officials said landslides have hit the strategic highway at some places in the Ramban district, including Digdol, Panthal, Magarkote and Khoni Nallah.