42 Workers Trapped in Avalanche in Uttarakhand; Extensive Rescue Efforts Underway
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Synopsis
An avalanche in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district trapped at least 42 workers engaged in road construction near Mana village. Rescue efforts involve multiple agencies, while heavy snowfall hampers operations. Uttarakhand's Chief Minister has expressed concern and guaranteed support for the trapped workers.
Key Takeaways
- Avalanche trapped 42 workers in Uttarakhand.
- Rescue operations are being coordinated by multiple agencies.
- Heavy snowfall is hindering rescue efforts.
- No fatalities reported yet.
- Chief Minister assures all possible assistance.
Chamoli (Uttarakhand), Feb 18 (NationPress) An enormous avalanche struck Uttarakhand's Chamoli district on Friday, leaving at least 42 workers, who were involved in road construction near Mana village close to the India-Tibet border, trapped beneath substantial layers of snow, officials confirmed.
Reports indicate that 57 workers were at the site when the avalanche hit, with 15 individuals successfully rescued and transported to an army camp near Mana in a critical state.
Rescue efforts are currently in progress, with numerous agencies, including the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), collaborating effectively.
The incident took place around 3 km ahead of the Badrinath Dham, near a BRO camp, where the workers were clearing snow from the highway for army operations.
Despite prompt mobilization, heavy snowfall has obstructed rescue activities. Three to four ambulances have been dispatched to the location, but they are facing delays due to perilous road conditions. Authorities are working diligently to clear blocked roads to facilitate the timely evacuation of those trapped.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed profound concern regarding the incident, stating: "We have received sad news about many workers being buried under an avalanche during BRO's construction work near Mana village in Chamoli district."
He assured that all possible support is being provided. "Relief and rescue operations are being carried out by ITBP, BRO, and other teams. I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all workers."
District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari has directed officials to hasten the rescue operation. "Information has been received about an avalanche near the Border Roads Organisation between Mana village and Mana Pass. 57 workers were reportedly engaged in snow clearance for army movement. No fatalities have been reported thus far. Rescue teams from ITBP, NDRF, and SDRF have been dispatched to the scene," he said.
A team from the SDRF has been sent from Joshimath, while another high-altitude rescue group is on standby at the Sahastradhara helipad, prepared for aerial deployment once weather conditions improve. The army has also been contacted to clear the impeded route in Lambagad.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several hilly regions, including Uttarakhand, predicting extremely heavy rainfall of up to 20 cm until late Friday night.
