Massive Avalanche Near Badrinath: Several Workers Trapped, Rescue Ops Underway
A massive avalanche struck near Mana village, close to Badrinath Dham in Uttarakhand, trapping several workers in the area. Reports suggest that the workers were clearing snow from the roads to ensure smooth passage for the army when the disaster struck. Following the incident, rescue teams from the Indian Army, ITBP, NDRF, and SDRF were immediately dispatched to the site. According to the Chamoli district administration, the avalanche occurred between Mana village and Mana Pass. District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari has instructed officials to take immediate action and carry out rescue operations. The avalanche hit near the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp, where road-clearing work was underway for army movement. So far, no confirmed reports of casualties have emerged, but rescue teams are actively working to assess the situation.
CM Dhami’s Statement
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his concern over the incident in Chamoli. He posted on social media, stating that an avalanche had struck the BRO construction site near Mana village, trapping several workers. He assured that ITBP, BRO, and other rescue teams were conducting relief and rescue operations. “I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all the workers,” he added.
Rescue Efforts and Ongoing Challenges
SDRF Inspector General Ridhim Aggarwal confirmed that a total of 57 workers from the BRO were affected by the avalanche. As per the BRO Commandant, 15 workers have been rescued, while 42 remain missing. A rescue team has already been deployed from Joshimath, but roadblocks due to heavy snowfall have slowed operations. The army has been contacted to clear the path. Another SDRF team has been kept on standby at Sahastradhara Helipad, ready to be airlifted as soon as weather conditions improve. Authorities have also received exact coordinates of the avalanche site, and SDRF’s high-altitude rescue teams are prepared to be flown to the closest accessible location. Additionally, drone teams are on standby for aerial surveillance, but heavy snowfall has prevented drone operations for now.
Rescue Update
So far, five more individuals have been rescued. Among them, three are injured and receiving treatment at the Army Hospital in Mana, while two are in stable condition.
Total Workers: 57
Rescued: 15
Missing: 42
Efforts are ongoing to locate and save the trapped workers as harsh weather conditions continue to pose challenges.
