Uttarakhand Avalanche: Army Rescues 32 Trapped BRO Workers; Rescue Operations Continue Despite Harsh Weather

The Indian Army and authorities in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district have successfully rescued 32 of the 57 Border Roads Organisation (BRO) workers who were trapped under snow after a massive avalanche struck the high-altitude village of Mana on Friday. However, inclement weather has severely impacted the ongoing rescue operations.

The Rescue Effort

According to officials, the avalanche buried a BRO camp situated between Mana and Badrinath, leaving 57 people trapped under heavy snow. So far, 32 individuals have been rescued, while efforts continue to save the remaining workers. Rescuers have been facing extreme weather conditions, with heavy snowfall and rain blocking access to the site.

Mana village, located just three kilometers from Badrinath at an altitude of 3,200 meters, is the last Indian village before the India-Tibet border. The terrain in the region is known for frequent avalanches during winter.

Challenges in Rescue Operations

Following the avalanche, additional minor avalanches occurred in the area, forcing rescue teams to temporarily halt operations due to safety concerns. According to officials, helicopters could not be deployed due to poor weather conditions.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reassured the public that the rescue operation remains a top priority. “Due to inclement weather, helicopter service cannot be used. We are trying to rescue the laborers. The PMO and home ministry are in touch with us,” he said.

Official Responses and Helpline Numbers

The Uttarakhand government has released emergency helpline numbers for information and assistance regarding the avalanche: 8218867005, 9058441404, and 0135 2664315.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh acknowledged the severity of the situation and assured that every possible effort is being made to rescue the trapped personnel. “An unfortunate avalanche has occurred in the Mana area of Joshimath today, impacting the GREF camp of BRO. Spoke to CM Pushkar Singh Dhami regarding the situation. The administration is providing all possible assistance, and rescue efforts by local Army units are underway,” he posted on X.

ADVERTISEMENT

Current Situation and Next Steps

Uttarakhand disaster management secretary Vinod Suman stated that a team of 65 personnel is engaged in rescue operations despite continuous snowfall. The rescued workers have been admitted to the ITBP hospital in Mana for medical assistance.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation, and as soon as weather conditions improve, further rescue operations will continue to ensure the safety of all trapped individuals. The government and rescue teams remain committed to bringing all affected workers to safety.

As the region braces for further snowfall, authorities urge residents and travelers to remain cautious and follow official guidelines to stay safe.