Srinagar: Army rescued 34 persons, including 30 students and four teachers, who were trapped in a school hostel in Baramulla district of north Kashmir on Tuesday after heavy rainfall caused a sudden rise in water levels, officials said.
“Continuous and intense rainfall caused a sudden rise in water levels in a stream in the Watargam area of Rafiabad (Baramulla), leading to flooding in a local school hostel. As a result, 30 school children and four teachers were trapped inside the premises with no safe exit routes,” the officials said.
The locals approached the army unit stationed there, which responded by launching a prompt rescue operation.
“Despite challenging conditions and dangerously high water levels, the teams managed to reach the stranded individuals and safely evacuate all 34 persons to secure locations,” the officials said.
Following the evacuation, the army provided the rescued children and staff with necessary assistance, including medical care and refreshments.
The army was assisted in the operation by the police, district administration and local youngsters, they added.
Meanwhile, a snow avalanche was reported in the Tulail area of the Gurez sector in Bandipora district. However, officials said it caused no damage as it remained confined to the mountainous region. (PTI)
