Massive Rescue Operation in Kedarnath Amidst Torrential Rain

Over 400 stranded devotees on the rain-swept trek to Kedarnath have been evacuated. Due to weather complications, operations have faced delays but continue diligently. Thousands have been shifted to safe zones with air and land rescue efforts. Ongoing measures include the construction of a footbridge and enhanced search efforts.

In a massive rescue operation, over 400 stranded devotees on the rain-lashed trek route to Kedarnath have been evacuated and directed to Lincholi for airlifting. The operation has continued into its fourth consecutive day as of Sunday.

Uttarakhand Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman reported that 10,000 people have been relocated to safer areas. Cloud cover in Kedarnath and surrounding zones has hampered air rescue missions. The Indian Air Force's Chinook helicopter remained grounded, while the MI17 managed to airlift 60 people in three flights.

Smaller helicopters have been deployed due to adverse weather conditions. Despite difficulties, rescue personnel, including SDRF and other forces, have managed to evacuate thousands, by both air and alternative land routes. Construction of a footbridge has also begun to replace washed-out roads. Additional search and rescue efforts continue with increased manpower and the deployment of sniffer dogs by the Army.

(With inputs from agencies.)