Avalanche hits Kinnaur, three rescued

Following three days of heavy snowfall, an avalanche hit a remote hamlet in the tribal Kinnaur district early Wednesday burying two houses. At least seven people were trapped in the avalanche of whom three were later extricated by rescue teams, an official said .

Due to quick rescue operation carried out by the police and the locals, three people were rescued within a few hours of the incident, Deputy Commissioner J.M. Pathania said.

Rescue work was continuing in the remote hamlet of Kafnu in Bhaba Valley, about 70 km from district headquarters Rekong Peo, where the avalanche struck, he said.

A medical team has reached the spot, Pathania added.

Kinnaur district has been witnessing heavy snow for the past three days.