GAYARI, SIACHEN: The search and rescue operation to recover 139 soldiers and civilians trapped underneath an avalanche continues for the thirteenth day. 495 soldiers and civilians are taking part in the operation while the team of US experts has left Gayari.
Despite facing harsh weather conditions, rescuers have managed to make a 450 metre tunnel after digging at five points.
Digging has also commenced at four new points as the morale of soldiers taking part in the search and rescue operation remains high.
Apart from using the latest machines, explosives are also being used to break rock. The seven member team from Norway remains in Gayari and is assisting Pakistan army soldiers in the operation.
An ISPR press release adds: To augment the search and rescue operation, ground penetrating radars along with experts have been sent to Gayari.
The Norwegian team has carried out a survey and are preparing a map of the area for engineering guidance.
Meanwhile the search operation continues at all sites with all available resources. A total of 495 persons including 83 civilians along with 29 engineering machines (Dumpers, Dozers, excavators etc) are employed at the sites.