A glacier burst near Badrinath Dham in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on Friday, leaving nearly 40 workers trapped in Mana village. The Army has deployed troops and equipment to aid in the rescue mission.
Avalanche Hits GREF Camp
An avalanche struck the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) camp in Mana, trapping 57 workers engaged in snow clearance and road construction. “Sixteen of those trapped were rescued. Efforts are on to rescue the others,” the Army’s Central (Surya) Command stated. Despite ongoing heavy snowfall and minor avalanches, the Army’s Ibex Brigade has moved personnel and equipment to the site.
Severe Weather Hampers Rescue Efforts
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Warning for Uttarakhand, predicting heavy snowfall and rain in Chamoli and Rudraprayag, further complicating rescue operations. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed the rescue of 16 workers and sought assistance from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Officials reported that poor visibility is delaying operations.
Heavy Rains Disrupt Himachal Pradesh
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall has caused severe disruptions in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, with rivers overflowing and roads blocked. Videos show vehicles being swept away or stuck in slush and debris. Authorities have shut down 200 roads, cutting off Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Shimla from the rest of the state.
Himachal Pradesh previously faced its worst disaster in 2022 when flash floods killed over 300 people and caused massive property damage. Rescue teams are now on high alert as extreme weather continues.
