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News18•30-09-2026, 18:15
Over 2,000 Sheep, Goats Feared Buried Under Snow in Himachal's Rupin Pass
  • •Over 2,000 sheep and goats are feared buried under snow in the Rupin Pass region of Himachal Pradesh after heavy snowfall on September 26.
  • •The incident occurred between Sangla in Kinnaur and Dodra-Kwar in Shimla district as shepherds were migrating their livestock for winter.
  • •Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi confirmed a rescue team, including local shepherds, home guards, police, and revenue personnel, reached Rupin Pass.
  • •More than three feet of snow has accumulated, with only horns of some large animals visible; the status of smaller animals remains unknown.
  • •The actual number of casualties will be determined once the snow melts, and a detailed assessment will lead to relief for affected shepherds.

Key Questions Answered

Over 2,000 sheep and goats became trapped following sudden and heavy snowfall on September 26 while shepherds were migrating their livestock through the Rupin Pass region for the winter.

A rescue team comprising local shepherds, home guards, police, and revenue personnel reached the summit of Rupin Pass, where over three feet of snow has accumulated. They are using satellite phones to maintain contact with the administration while assessing the ground situation.

Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi stated that once the snow recedes, a detailed assessment of livestock losses will be conducted by a specialized departmental team. Following this, the government will begin providing relief and intends to offer assistance through a special relief package to compensate for the losses.