Bodies of 7 Army troops hit by avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh recovered

Seven Indian Army troops who were struck by an avalanche close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Kameng sector in Arunachal Pradesh on February 6 have been declared dead by the Army. The bodies of all seven soldiers have been recovered. 

The seven deceased troops were part of a high-altitude patrol at 14,500 feet in a forward area in Tawang district. Search and rescue operations were launched immediately, including airlifting of specialised teams. There’s been heavy snowfall in the area. 

“Search and rescue operations have now been concluded.  Bodies of all seven individuals have been recovered from the avalanche site. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of everyone involved, all seven have been confirmed deceased,” the Army stated on February 8.  

“The bodies of the soldiers are currently being transferred from the avalanche site to the nearest Army medical facility for further formalities,” the statement added.  

President Ram Nath Kovind led the political and military leadership in condoling the death of the troops. “The brave soldiers laid down their lives for the service of the nation. Their selfless sacrifice will always be remembered. My condolences to their families,” Rashtrapati Bhavan stated on Twitter. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi echoed the President. “Saddened by the loss of lives of Indian Army personnel due to an avalanche in Arunachal Pradesh. We will never forget their exemplary service to our nation. Condolences to the bereaved families,” the Prime Minister stated. 

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu also expressed grief. “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives of Army personnel who were struck by an avalanche while on a patrol at a high altitude area in Arunachal Pradesh. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. Their selfless service to the nation will always be remembered,” he stated.  

In his condolence message, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the deceased soldiers’ service to the nation. “Deeply pained by the demise of Indian Army personnel who were struck by an avalanche in Kemang Sector, Arunachal Pradesh. These brave soldiers lost their lives while serving the nation. I salute their courage and service. My heartfelt condolences to their bereaved families.” 

Army Chief General MM Naravane led the Army in offering  condolences to the bereaved families.  

Vishal Thapar

BW Reporters Group Editorial Head for BW’s Defence, Security & Police