File photo shows an aerial view of an avalanche. PHOTO: AFP
Eighteen miners, mostly from Kohistan area, were caught in the avalanche, Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) officials said.
Two miners are believed to have been killed while contact has been established with some of the others stranded, officials reported.
PDMA to include rescue procedures in textbooks
The meteorological department forecasts strong winds with heavy rainfall and snowfall in coming few days. Assistant Commissioner of Balakot, Roman Burrana, told The Express Tribune that the road link to the affected area has been established.
He also confirmed the death of one person while adding that he was hopeful for other men's survival.
The National Logistics Cell (NLC), National Highway Authority (NHA) and the military were all helping clear the route, according to officials.
Meanwhile, Kaghan Valley also received heavy snowfall during the past 24 hours, causing blockage of road between Naran and Balakot.
As a result, hundreds of tourists are stranded in the area.
PM directs safe evacuation of tourists
Taking notice of the situation, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has directed the officials concerned to ensure safe evacuation of tourists stuck in the snow.
He directed the interior secretary to contact chief secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to mobilise help for those stranded.
NDMA begins operation
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also announced to initiate helicopter service to rescue the tourists from Monday.
The disaster management authority has also asked the National Highway Authority to clear the road between Naran and Balakot.
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