Rescue efforts continue in full force after an avalanche struck the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand on Friday, trapping 55 workers from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). By Saturday noon, 49 workers had been rescued, with operations ongoing to locate and save the remaining individuals, according to the Uttarakhand government.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial survey of the avalanche site and monitored the rescue operations from the disaster control room in Dehradun. Speaking about the challenging situation, CM Dhami noted that heavy snowfall has disrupted electricity and internet services in more than five blocks in the region. Efforts are underway to restore connectivity as soon as possible.
The avalanche struck a General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) camp near Mana village in the Garhwal sector around 7:15 am on February 28. The snow buried workers inside eight containers and one shed. Over 100 personnel from the Indian Army’s Ibex Brigade, including doctors, ambulances, and heavy machinery, were immediately mobilized for the rescue mission. By late Friday morning, five containers had been located, and 10 workers were pulled out alive — four of them in critical condition.
As of Saturday, 23 injured workers were airlifted to Joshimath for medical treatment, with some reported in serious condition. Rescue teams, including personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Indian Army, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, continue to work tirelessly to locate the three remaining containers.
The Indian Army’s Central Command confirmed that three critically injured workers were airlifted from Mana to Joshimath for urgent medical care via civilian helicopters hired by the Army. Four additional helicopters have also been deployed to assist with rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have assured full support for the rescue operations, with PM Modi speaking directly to CM Dhami to review the situation. “The safety of the affected workers is our top priority,” CM Dhami stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing all possible assistance.
The Uttarakhand government has issued helpline numbers for those seeking information: Mobile: 8218867005, 9058441404; Telephone: 0135 2664315; Toll-Free: 1070.
As the search for the remaining trapped workers continues, rescue teams remain focused on overcoming the harsh weather conditions to ensure the safety and well-being of those still missing.