Army Chief General Kayani in Gilgit Baltistan on Eid Day

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, visited forward locations in Gilgit Baltistan, today, to celebrate Eid with troops. COAS visited Gayari to meet troops committed in the recovery operation. 

The operation started as a relief and rescue effort, immediately after the disastrous avalanche that caused Shahadat of 140 soldiers and civilians. It has continued without any let off for the last four and a half months despite severe terrain and climatic conditions. 

COAS lauded the perseverance and motivation of troops involved in the rescue effort which has resulted in the recovery of 79 bodies to date. Given the pace of recovery effort, it is hoped that before onset of the winters all the bodies would have been recovered. 

Later, COAS visited Hamzigund, where he interacted with troops deployed along the Line of Control. He appreciated the soldiers for their resolve, determination and devotion to duty.Commander Rawalpindi Corps, Lieutenant General Khalid Nawaz Khan, accompanied COAS during the visit.