INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Rescuers evacuated tourists on Tuesday from a remote skiing area in northwestern China where dozens of avalanches triggered by heavy snow
have trapped more than 1,000 people for a week, state media said.The avalanches have blocked roads, stranding both tourists and residents in
airlifted out on a military helicopter while supplies such as food and fuel were being flown in.State broadcaster CCTV said a snow-blocked
road linking Hemu village to major roads was cleared on Tuesday, enabling vehicles to enter and tourists to drive themselves out.Footage
showed dozens of tourists dragging luggage over snow-covered areas toward a military helicopter, while a long line of outgoing cars was seen
on the cleared road.State media cited the local highway administration as saying the avalanches affected 350 kilometers (220 miles) of roads
slopes.Known as an emerging ski destination, Altay prefecture had been hit by heavy snowfall since early January
China Daily, citing the Xinjiang meteorological bureau, said at least 31 avalanches were reported as of Saturday.Authorities at the Kanas
scenic area, where Hemu village is located, said the area will be closed until at least Jan
20 due to continued extreme weather.Source: The Associated Press--Agencies
