Pakistan's Armed Forces have rescued 400 people who were marooned by the floodwaters of the River Hangol in Balochistan.

A handout issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) department of the armed forces said that at least 340 persons were rescued from the Aaghor area on the coastal highway on Friday morning. At least 50 Hindu pilgrims who were on a visit to the Sri Mata Mandir, were also rescued and shifted to safer places.

Reports from Quetta said that President Pervez Musharraf has assured Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Yusuf of all help in connection with relief and rehabilitation operations.

He also said that he would review the need for carrying out alterations in the design of the Mirani Dam and ensure compensations for those affected by the torrential downpour.

The Balochistan Chief Minister is said to have briefed Musharraf about the latest situation in the province during a phone call.

Musharraf expressed his anxiety over the damage caused by the floods.

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz is also visiting the flood hit coastal areas of Balochistan to have first hand information about the extent of damage. He is expected to undertake a tour of Turbat with Chief Minister Jam Yusuf.

Health authorities have sent medical teams to attend to patients suffering from gastroenteritis. Since all ground communication has been disrupted four helicopters have been deployed to rescue the stranded people.

Emergency measures have been taken to meet any eventuality,The News reported.