The unfortunate demise of a Russian skier in the Gulmarg backcountry, claimed by an avalanche, was a result of disregarding safety protocols, officials revealed. Despite warnings from ski patrol regarding the restricted red-zone area, the group ventured into perilous terrain. Brian Newman, Jammu and Kashmir’s Snow Safety Officer, emphasized that avalanches are typically triggered by those within their path, with experienced skiers often seeking the thrill of backcountry skiing despite heightened risks. The incident involved a group of six skiers, one of whom tragically perished, while others were rescued by a collaborative effort involving ski patrol, army, and local volunteers. Non-native skiers often deviate from designated areas, increasing the likelihood of triggering avalanches due to the added load on snowpack. While Gulmarg is renowned for its skiing opportunities, including the ongoing Khelo India Winter Games 2024, incidents like this underscore the importance of adhering to