Siachen survivor continues to be very critical

NEW DELHI : The condition of Army soldier Lance Naik Hanumanthappa Koppad, who miraculously survived after remaining buried under 35 feet snow for over five days, is still stated to be very critical with no visible signs of improvement.
The medical condition of the soldier remains very critical, said a health bulletin issued at 1200 hrs by Army’s Research and Referral Hospital, where he is being treated after being airlifted from the Siachen base camp.
“He remains ventilator dependent since arrival. The medical team treating him at R&R Hospital is monitoring his situation continuously and is being treated with best expertise and resources available in the world,” the bulletin said.
The miracle survivor had suffered no cold exposure related frost bite or bony injuries. Hanamanthappa was found buried under 35 feet of ice and snow at 20,500 feet for over five days since the avalanche hit the Sonam post in the northern part of Siachen Glacier on February 3.
It is said that an air pocket may have saved his life, while nine other members of the post were found dead. (AGENCIES)