Avalanche Traps Workers in Chamoli: Rescue Efforts Underway

A severe avalanche near Mana village in Chamoli district trapped 57 BRO workers. Relief operations are ongoing, with 16 workers rescued so far. The rescue is coordinated by the ITBP, SDRF, and the Army. Heavy snowfall and blocked roads hinder efforts, but authorities remain vigilant in rescue missions.

In a critical incident near Mana village in Chamoli district, 57 workers of the Border Roads Organisation were trapped under snow following an avalanche, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reported on Friday. Of those affected, 16 have been rescued as emergency efforts persist.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), along with the army and the state's disaster relief force, are spearheading rescue operations under challenging weather conditions, including active snowfall, rendering helicopter deployment infeasible.

Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari assured that communications with higher authorities remain robust, albeit hindered by the absence of satellite phones. BRO's Executive Engineer and other officials confirmed that despite significant obstacles, all resources are mobilized to ensure a swift and safe rescue.

(With inputs from agencies.)