17 army men killed in Gulmarg avalanche

Srinagar, Feb 9: Tragedy struck the army camp on Monday, Feb 8, as nearly 17 army men were buried alive and an equal number were injured in the massive avalanche that hit a ski resort in Gulmarg.

Officials said that the 60-strong combat troops encountered the avalanche when they were scaling the icy walls in zero visibility in Khilanmarg as part of their warfare training camp.

Army spokesman Col. J S Brar said that while seventeen men were buried alive in the massive snow, 17 were extricated and 26 others were rescued.

He added that the injured have been taken to the army hospital.

Informing about the victims, Col.Brar said that Lt. Prateek, and 16 other soldiers from Army''s prestigious High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) died in the avalanche.

According to Col Brar, the victims belong to the group of 350 soldiers who were selected for advanced winter warfare course run by the Gulmarg-based school.

Officials have ruled out the possibility of the tourist been trapped in the avalanche.

Meanwhile, the army informed that the rescue operation is over and those who have been earlier reported missing have been found.

Gulmarg has been reportedly experiencing heavy snowfall for the past couple of days. Atleast six-foot of snow have been reported in certain areas.

OneIndia News