E-Paper
Foreigners aid rescue ops
Thousands of foreign tourists in Leh have joined hands with state administration teams to rescue people trapped in debris.
Thousands of foreign tourists in Leh have joined hands with state administration teams to rescue people trapped in debris.
Using gestures and signs, these tourists are also helping evacuate the affected people in Choglamsar village, around 13 km from Leh town, one of the worst affected areas.
“There was total chaos and destruction in the town with people wailing over either death or disappearance of their loved ones,” said Anonish (24), a teacher in Athens, Greece.
“These people had offered great hospitality me when I landed here. I will not return to my country till rescue operation is over,” he added.
Known for its beautiful hiking and trekking trails, Leh attracts tourists from Europe, Israel and Austria in large numbers. Currently, there are nearly 3,000 tourists in Leh.
“It is very painful to see the condition of affected people as they have lost all their belongings in this catastrophe,” said Amit (23) from Israel. “We will extend all possible help.”
