Army rescues 30 civilians from avalanche hit areas in Kupwara
Posted on Jan 19, 2022 | Author Aatif Qayoom
Srinagar, Jan 18: Army on Tuesday rescued 30 civilians on Chowkibal-Tangdhar road after a twin avalanche hit the area.
As per the officials after fresh snowfall in the area, two avalanches hit the road at two locations resulting in several vehicles getting stuck in an avalanche at Chowkibal-Tangdhar road (NH-701).
The official said after receiving information that several civilians were stuck at Khooni Nala. The nearby army unit was alerted and pressed into service. “Army along with GREF teams reached the scene and started the rescue operation”, he said.
He also said that after hectic efforts, all 14 civilians were rescued safely and were taken to a nearby army unit for shelter where they stayed for the night.
A group of 16 civilians were also stuck at Sadna Top. Rescue teams, comprising avalanche rescue teams from the Indian Army and a team from GREF, were mobilised to rescue the civilians who were stuck in their vehicles.
All the rescued civilians were provided food, medical care and shelter for the night.
Twelve vehicles were later retrieved during the day on Tuesday post avalanche and snow slide clearance from the road. The entire rescue operation took about five to six hours.
The armed forces had rescued civilians near Khooni Nala last year as well, as the area is prone to avalanches and snow slides.
Meanwhile, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Karnah has ordered the closure of Tanghdar-Chowkibal road given fresh snowfall in the area.
He also requested the travelers not to leave their homes without confirming the road status from the control room.