Heavy snowfall traps 80 including children
14 January, 2013
KABUL: According to reports at least 80 people including women and children have been trapped in Barfi Pass at Khost district of northern Baghlan province following heavy snow and are at risk of losing their lives. The recent heavy snow fall has reportedly closed the main highways and roads of the central provinces of Afghanistan. Waras district chief for central Bamiyan province of Afghanistan Mohammad Zaman Bahlul said at least four civilians who were trapped under the snow following avalanche breakout were taken out today and one of the passenger is in a critical health condition. Bahlul further added the four passengers were trapped under the snow after their vehicle was hit by avalanche at Qawnaq highway between Bamiyan and Daikundi provinces. In the meantime dozens of other passengers have been reportedly trapped in Qawnaq highway due to heavy snow fall which has blocked the roads and highway. Provincial governor Habiba Surabi said the concerned officials were informed to prevent travelling while the roads are blocked however the passengers and drivers have ignored the notices. She said all the roads and highways connecting Bamiyan province with the central provinces have been blocked following heavy snow fall last night. Surabi also said that the cleaning work of the roads and highways have been contracted to private companies and will start their work soon after the snow fall stops. End.
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