In a tragic incident that unfolded on Saturday morning, an avalanche struck the picturesque valley of Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan, claiming the lives of eight people, including four women and a child. The victims, who were nomads traveling from Azad Kashmir to Astore, had established a camp along with their cattle in the region. Hailing from various areas of Punjab, they were caught unaware by the powerful avalanche.
Avalanche Tragedy Strikes Astore District
Following the avalanche, rescue officials and local authorities launched a daring operation to locate and save any survivors trapped under the snow. After nearly 28 hours of relentless efforts, hope emerged as a 70-year-old man named Muhammad Hussain was discovered alive beneath the snow. His rescue marked the successful conclusion of the operation, bringing the total number of survivors to three.
Wazir Asad Ali, the media officer for Astore Rescue 1122, expressed relief at the rescue of the remaining survivors, stating that they were promptly transported to the DHQ Hospital Astore for medical attention. Ali confirmed that all three individuals were in stable condition, receiving the necessary treatment.
Miraculous Rescue Efforts Unfold
Pakistan Army and police forces played a crucial role in supporting the local administration and rescue teams throughout the operation. Their combined efforts were vital in ensuring a comprehensive search and rescue mission, especially considering the region's susceptibility to natural disasters such as avalanches.
The bodies of the unfortunate victims will be respectfully transported to their hometowns in Punjab, allowing their families to bid them farewell and mourn their loss.