An army captain was killed and seven other soldiers were injured after an avalanche hit a patrol party in Siachen glacier in Ladakh sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday.
The officer has been identified as Captain Ashwini Kumar, a native of Shanti Nagar in Patiala, Punjab. “Capt Kumar lost his life when his patrol came under an avalanche in Siachen glacier,” said Srinagar-based defence spokesman Colonel NN Joshi.
A rescue operation was launched immediately and 15 soldiers were saved. However, regimental medical officer Capt Kumar, 27, could not be saved and his body was retrieved from under the avalanche. “His body has been sent to his native place,” added Joshi.
Capt Kumar, attached with 3 Ladakh Scouts, was a bachelor. The tragedy occurred near Manjit post when troops of the 3 Ladakh Scouts were moving downhill. The injured were rushed to a military hospital.
In Patiala, district sainik welfare officer Commander BS Virk said the officer’s family received the information about the tragedy around 6 pm on Friday. The family received the body on Saturday evening.
General Officer Commanding of the Northern Command Lt General DS Hooda has expressed grief over the loss of the officer.
{{/usCountry}}General Officer Commanding of the Northern Command Lt General DS Hooda has expressed grief over the loss of the officer.
{{/usCountry}}The spokesman said the Army commander has conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family.