Friday, February 25 2005 10:25 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

United Nations: UN Secretary General Kofi Annan yesterday (Feb 24, 2005) sent his condolences to the victims in Kashmir, where more than 250 people have been killed in avalanches after heavy snowfall.

"The Secretary General was saddened to learn of the loss of life and damage to property in Jammu and Kashmir," his spokesman said in a statement.

"He extends his deepest condolences to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially to the families of the hundreds who have been killed and injured," the statement said.

Volunteers were still digging frantically yesterday in search for survivors but hopes faded of finding anyone still alive.