INDIAN ARMY RESCUED STRANDED CIVILIANS IN HEAVY SNOWFALL AT SINTHAN

Kishtwar : 16 Mar 2026: The Indian Army responded to an urgent situation when 235 civilians and 38 vehicles became stranded at Sinthan Top on 15 Mar 2026, due to heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions. Upon receiving the information, troops of the Indian Army were promptly dispatched to provide assistance. Despite initial delays caused by continuous snowfall, the troops of Indian Army reached Sinthan Top, utilizing chained vehicles for safe passage. Upon arrival, relief efforts commenced with the distribution of food, hot beverages and drinking water to the stranded individuals. Special provisions were also made for those observing Roza during the challenging conditions. In addition, technical teams worked to repair and recover vehicles, with passengers from unrepairable vehicles safely evacuated. Temporary shelter was arranged at the Sinthan Maidan Army Operating Base and Sinthan Forest Hut, where stranded civilians were provided with heating, sleeping bags, and kerosene heaters. Medical assistance was also available for those in need. All civilians and vehicles were safely escorted through Chingam, Mobile Vehicle Check Post. The success of this assistance was made possible through strong coordination between the Indian Army, Jammu & Kashmir Police and NHIDCL, ensuring the safe evacuation of all individuals despite the extreme weather conditions.