7 Indian soldiers missing after avalanche hits army patrol

NEW DELHI

Seven army personnel went missing in northeastern India after being hit by an avalanche, and search and rescue operations are underway, the army announced on Monday.

The incident occurred Sunday in the high-altitude Kameng sector of Arunachal Pradesh.

“The army men were part of a patrolling team when the avalanche struck them,” said Lt. Col. Harsh Vardhan Pande.

“The area has been witnessing inclement weather with heavy snowfall since the last few days,” he said.

The army also said that specialized teams have been airlifted to assist in rescue operations.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said on Twitter that the soldiers will be rescued as soon as possible.