By IANS,
Srinagar: A total of 140 civilians were evacuated from avalanche-prone areas in Kulgam district of south Kashmir, police said Saturday.
"A rescue operation was launched last (Friday) evening in Waltengu Nard in tehsil Qazigund (Kulgam) which is prone to snow-related casualties and property loses. It was suspended last night and launched again this morning under supervision of Kulgam's Superintendent of Police Mohammad Shafi," a senior police officer told IANS.
"In all, 140 civilians comprising 50 children, 45 men and 45 women were rescued. They have been brought to Waltengu village."
A pregnant woman was Friday evacuated and taken to hospital by police in Badgam district of north Kashmir, the officer said.
According to the officer, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir zone, S.M Sahai has directed all the district police authorities to provide all possible help to the people in the wake of the snowfall.
Waltengu Nard on the foothills of the Pir Panjal mountain range was hit by multiple avalanches in 2004, trapping hundreds of local villagers.