At least 9 dead, 25 injured in Astore avalanche in Gilgit-Baltistan

GILGIT, May 27 (SABAH): At least 9 people have lost their lives, and 25 others sustained injuries in a snow avalanche that hit Astore district, Gilgit Baltistan on Saturday, according to officials.

Deputy Inspector General of Police for Diamer-Astore Division, Tufail Mir, informed media that the avalanche struck nine people near Shunter Pass during the early hours of the day. Among the deceased were three women, he added.

Tufail Mir said that rescue teams were facing challenges in reaching the affected area due to its remote location and difficult terrain.

Furthermore, communication difficulties were also impeding the officials’ efforts.

GB Chief Minister Muhammad Khalid Khurshid Khan expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and instructed local authorities to initiate rescue operations.

He called upon the secretary interior, director general of GBDMA (Gilgit Baltistan Disaster Management Authority) and other officials to look into the incident immediately. He has directed the secretary interior, Director General of GBDMA, and other officials to rush to the spot. The GB Chief Minister is also expected to visit the location.

Meanwhile, GB Chief Secretary Mohiuddin Wani said that rescue teams had been dispatched to the affected area in line with the instructions of the chief minister.