In Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, a massive avalanche near Mana village has trapped 57 Border Roads Organisation (BRO) construction workers. As of now, 32 workers have been rescued, with efforts underway to save the remaining 41, according to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
NDRF Director General Piyush Anand reported that four NDRF teams have been mobilized, focusing on evacuating as many people as possible. He stated that Union Home Minister Amit Shah is closely monitoring the situation and has directed that every life must be saved.
“16 people have been evacuated so far. Our focus remains on rescuing the maximum number of people. The Home Minister has spoken to the DG of ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) and myself, providing clear directions to prioritize saving lives,” Anand told ANI.
Uttarakhand Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Suman acknowledged the challenging conditions due to continuous snowfall but confirmed that a 65-member rescue team is working tirelessly. “The situation remains difficult with ongoing snowfall. So far, 10 people have been rescued, and efforts continue to save those still trapped. We have requested an Army helicopter for assistance,” Suman said.
Rescued workers have been admitted to the ITBP hospital in Mana for treatment.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami assured that the rescue mission remains a top priority despite the inclement weather preventing the use of helicopters. “The rescue operation is ongoing. The Prime Minister’s Office and the Home Minister’s Office are in constant touch with us,” Dhami said at a press conference.
Dhami also visited the state disaster control room to review the ongoing rescue efforts.
The Uttarakhand government has issued helpline numbers for assistance and information related to the avalanche. The numbers are: Mobile – 8218867005, 9058441404; Telephone – 0135 2664315; Toll-Free – 1070.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with CM Dhami and assured that the government’s priority is the safe evacuation of those affected. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also confirmed that local army units are providing all possible assistance.
