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Over 350 stranded people rescued in India’s Himachal Pradesh
NEW DELHI, Sept 26, 2018 (BSS/XINHUA) – Over 350 people stranded in the
upper reaches of northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh were rescued
safely, local government officials said Wednesday.
These people were stranded in Lahaul-Spiti district, located north of
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh.
“The rescue work of evacuating stranded people in the snowbound Lahaul-
Spiti district is still underway for the second consecutive day,” an official
told Xinhua. “Since yesterday more than 350 people have been brought out
through the tunnel.”
According to officials three army helicopters have also been pressed into
service to evacuate people stranded in inaccessible areas.
“So far, 18 people including some foreigners have been transported safely
to Kullu through three army helicopters,” the official said.
Meanwhile, the roads closed due to the landslide in the tribal area of
Pangi and Bharmour in Chamba district are being opened for vehicular traffic.
“The roads are expected to be thrown open in next two to three days,” the
official said.
Himachal Pradesh witnessed heavy rainfall and snow in the plains and upper
reaches respectively. The downpour triggering flash floods has pushed up
water level in the rivers and streams.
The inclement weather resulted in stranding people at many places
especially the trekkers who had gone for hiking.
BSS/XINHUA/SSS/1634 hrs