Indian Army's Rapid Response Aids Stranded Tourists During Intense Snowfall in Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 28 (NationPress) On Saturday, the Indian Army confirmed that it has commenced a Human Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operation in Gulmarg, situated in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, following an unprecedented level of snowfall.

The heavy snowfall rendered the route to Tangmarg impassable, leaving many tourists stranded.

In response to an urgent appeal from civil authorities regarding the stranded tourists, the Indian Army acted swiftly.

According to an official statement, "The rescue operation, spearheaded by the Indian Army, was designed to evacuate the trapped tourists while providing immediate assistance and relief."

"Exhibiting remarkable efficiency and dedication, the operation successfully rescued 68 individuals, comprising 30 women, 30 men, and 8 children. Initiated at 1900 hours, this mission highlighted the excellent coordination between the Indian Army and Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA)."

The rescued tourists were given shelter and meals at the Gulmarg Army base.

They remained there until the route was cleared and confirmed safe for further travel.

"This rapid and compassionate response received tremendous appreciation from both the tourists and local authorities," the statement noted.

"The unwavering commitment, professionalism, and effectiveness of the Indian Army in challenging conditions underscore their dedication to public welfare. This operation is a testament to the Army’s readiness to protect and serve, even during the harshest circumstances. The Indian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare of the citizens."

In addition to the Army, the local police have also been actively involved in rescue operations. On Saturday, due to the snowfall, the J&K Police extended assistance to the public by evacuating ailing patients and rescuing hundreds of stranded vehicles throughout the Kashmir valley.

The police reported an incident in Anantnag where a distress call indicated that a vehicle carrying four tourists stuck in heavy snow while traveling from the National Highway via Dalwach to Dooru left the passengers trapped in extreme weather conditions.

A police team from Police Station Dooru promptly rushed to the scene and rescued all four tourists, safely transporting them to a secure location.

Additionally, the police facilitated the emergency evacuation of a female patient from Bragam Dooru to the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Dooru using a police vehicle. The patient, who had recently undergone surgery, was in severe pain and required urgent medical care.

Upon receiving the distress call, the police acted without delay, arranging transportation and ensuring that the patient was safely taken to the hospital.

The police in Budgam also assisted tourists stranded in Doodhpathri and aided patients, commuters, and tourists stuck on roads in various locations across the district, particularly in remote areas.

In Pulwama, a distress call reported a group of individuals, including a deceased body, stranded at Wahibugh while en route to Qazipora Budgam. The police acted quickly to carry the deceased body on foot to Qazipora, allowing the bereaved family to conduct the final rites.

In a separate incident early Saturday morning, two women requiring immediate medical attention were rescued near Turkawagan Bridge. Braving challenging weather, the police transported the patients to the District Hospital Pulwama, where they received the necessary medical treatment.

In Ganderbal, the police provided assistance to tourists, commuters, and patients stranded in the snow at various locations across the district.