Srinagar, Sep 25: A joint rescue by the police and the army, backed by the indispensable Dial-112 emergency services, saved the day for a stranded family in the rugged wilderness of Bangus Valley in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Sunday, officials said.
They said the incident took place on September 24, when Atiq-ul-Rahman, accompanied by his family, embarked on a picnic adventure in a Scorpio vehicle. However, their return journey took an unexpected turn when they opted for the Upper Rajwar Wader Bala route toward Handwara, only to lose their way in the dense forests. Adding to their plight, their vehicle became lodged, rendering it immobile.
With no immediate way out, the family, comprising 11 individuals, including five women and five young children, reached out to Dial-112 for a lifeline. Responding swiftly to the distress call, Dial-112 promptly alerted the local police units, the official said.
Incharge Police Post Zachaldara, accompanied by a police contingent and the Army’s 21RR unit, sprang into action. After arduous efforts, the joint rescue team located the stranded family, ensuring the safety of all 11 members, he said, adding that they were sheltered for the night at the Police Post Zachaldara and provided with much-needed refreshments.
The ordeal didn’t end there. A JCB was summoned by the police to extricate their immobilised vehicle, escorting the family to the main road. From there, the relieved family resumed their journey homeward.
The stranded family expressed their gratitude for the timely assistance of the police and lauded the rapid response of Dial-112.
