Uttarakhand CM Dhami Oversees Aerial Survey of Avalanche-Affected Region, Reports '48 Rescued'

Chamoli/New Delhi, March 1 (NationPress) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial assessment on Saturday of the areas impacted by the avalanche in Chamoli district. He gathered first-hand insights regarding the relief and rescue operations carried out by various agencies including the Indian Army, ITBP, local police, and others.

His visit to Joshimath included checking on the trapped workers from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), who were being evacuated for medical attention.

Speaking to the press, CM Dhami provided a comprehensive update about the avalanche's impact in the Chamoli region and detailed how the rescue efforts are progressing.

Describing the critical situation, CM Dhami stated that the avalanche struck around mid-morning, entrapping workers present in the vicinity.

“The avalanche occurred yesterday due to heavy snowfall, catching many workers off guard. Initially, there were 55 individuals trapped in the affected area. By nightfall, 33 had been rescued, and an additional 14 were saved this morning, totaling 48 individuals brought to safety thus far,” Dhami reported.

He further noted that seven individuals remain unaccounted for.

“We are doing everything we can to locate the remaining individuals. The severe snowfall and challenging terrain are complicating our rescue efforts. Currently, there is no electricity, and internet connectivity is down in the region. However, we are working on installing an antenna to restore communication with nearby villages,” Dhami explained.

Importantly, over 200 personnel from multiple agencies are involved in these operations, including the Indian Army, ITBP, disaster management teams, the fire brigade, local police, and medical staff.

“We have adequate helicopters available, and around 23 individuals have been airlifted from Mana to Joshimath, where they are receiving medical treatment across two hospitals,” Dhami added.

The situation has become increasingly critical as cold temperatures have worsened conditions for survivors, some of whom have sustained injuries while attempting to escape the avalanche.

Additionally, Dhami mentioned that snow accumulation on helipads has hindered larger-scale operations, but efforts are ongoing to clear areas to facilitate more effective helicopter evacuations. He cautioned that weather conditions in the region could result in further landslides and avalanches, urging residents and workers to relocate to safer locations.

“We have alerted individuals working at high altitudes to exercise caution. There is a significant risk of additional landslides in February and March, so we’ve advised them to move as a precaution,” he stated.

The Chief Minister also highlighted that the flow of the Alakananda River had been disrupted due to a landslide, increasing the risk in the area. To avert further damage, research stations and disaster management institutes have been deployed to monitor the situation and mitigate loss of life.

In the meantime, the rescue operation team from the IBEX Brigade has been activated, utilizing a total of six helicopters, which includes three Cheetah helicopters from the Indian Army Aviation, two from the Indian Air Force, and one civil helicopter at the site.

Chief Minister Dhami expressed appreciation to the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Defence Minister for their unwavering support during this crisis.

“The efforts of the army and other agencies have been remarkable. We are committed to doing everything possible to ensure the safety of those who remain missing,” Dhami concluded.