Russian skier dies as avalanche hits resort in India’s Gulmarg

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The government had already issued an avalanche warning in the upper reaches of the Kashmir region after heavy snowfall was witnessed over last three days. Areas like Gulmarg, Kupwara and Gurez in North Kashmir have witnessed several feet of snow. The government has advised caution

An avalanche hit upper reaches of a ski resort in India’s Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday (Feb 22) killing a Russian skier. While seven others have been rescued.

The body of the dead skier has been recovered from the Khilan Marg area on Afarwat Peak after it was hit by the avalanche on Thursday afternoon.

‘An avalanche hit Khilan Marg, trapping at least 8 skiers including some foreign skiers as well. Soon after, a massive rescue operation was launched at the site, which has so far resulted in killing of a skier and rescue of all others. Rescue operation has now been called off as all the trapped skiers were brought down safely while one local skier is said to be injured,” said an official. 

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The government had already issued an avalanche warning in the upper reaches of the Kashmir region after heavy snowfall was witnessed over last three days. Areas like Gulmarg, Kupwara and Gurez in North Kashmir have witnessed several feet of snow. The government has advised caution.

Authorities have not released information about identities of the skiers but sources say that out of eight skiers in the group, five were foreigners.

Officials also said that all athletes due to take part in the 4th Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg are safe.

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