CHITRAL: A devastating avalanche in Chitral has killed nine members of a single family, while one child was rescued alive after being trapped under snow, local authorities confirmed on Thursday.
Deputy Commissioner Chitral Rao Hashim said that 10 people were buried when the avalanche struck their home in a mountainous area. Rescue teams worked under extreme weather conditions and successfully retrieved the bodies of nine victims from the debris.
“The rescued child was shifted to a nearby medical facility, while the bodies have been transported to Wardaap, Drosh, for legal and medical formalities,” the deputy commissioner said.
Authorities added that heavy snowfall continues to disrupt life in northern Pakistan, increasing the risk of avalanches and landslides. Roads remain blocked in several areas, complicating rescue and relief efforts.
Meanwhile, in Tirah Valley of Khyber district, rescue operations are ongoing to relocate internally displaced persons (IDPs) who remain stranded due to persistent snowfall. Officials said efforts are underway to move affected families to safer locations.
Pakistan’s upper regions have been experiencing severe winter conditions, prompting authorities to urge residents and travelers to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary movement.
