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A significant avalanche hit a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp near Mana village in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on Friday morning, burying 55 workers beneath a thick layer of snow. By Saturday morning, rescue teams had managed to save 33 individuals, while 22 workers are still missing. The rescue efforts, which involve several agencies, have faced difficulties due to harsh weather, including heavy snowfall.
Avalanche Hits BRO Camp Near Mana Village
The avalanche struck near the high-altitude village of Mana, situated close to the India-China border, affecting a BRO camp where workers were busy with road construction. The sudden snow slide engulfed eight containers and a shed, trapping 55 workers inside. These workers come from various states, including Uttarakhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Swift Rescue Operations and Obstacles
In the aftermath of the avalanche, rescue operations commenced immediately, with teams from the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) working diligently to find and rescue the trapped workers. However, their efforts have been significantly hindered by heavy snowfall and severe weather conditions, leading to a temporary suspension of rescue operations as night descended on the snow-covered terrain.
Collaboration Among Authorities
Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has been actively engaging with central officials to accelerate rescue operations. He updated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the current situation, receiving commitments for comprehensive support from the central government. Furthermore, Chief Minister Dhami has instructed his team to airlift critically injured workers in need of immediate medical care. He is also traveling to Chamoli to evaluate the circumstances firsthand and ensure that all essential resources are mobilized for the rescue efforts.
Weather Conditions and Their Effect on Rescue Efforts
Chamoli is currently experiencing mostly cloudy weather, with temperatures hovering around 11°C (52°F). The forecast for Saturday, March 1, predicts a transition from clouds to some sunshine, with light rain expected in the morning and brief showers in the afternoon. These weather conditions could complicate the ongoing rescue missions.
Historical Context of Avalanches in Uttarakhand
This event serves as a poignant reminder of the region's susceptibility to avalanches and other natural disasters. In 2022, an avalanche at the Draupadi Ka Danda peak tragically resulted in the deaths of 27 mountaineers, marking one of India's most devastating mountaineering incidents. The ecologically delicate Himalayan area has been significantly impacted by climate change, increasing its vulnerability to such disasters. mountaineering incidents. The ecologically delicate Himalayan area has been significantly impacted by climate change, increasing its vulnerability to such disasters.
Rescue Efforts Underway and Optimism for Survivors
Rescue teams are tirelessly working to find and save the 22 workers still trapped. With a sense of urgency, they are utilizing every available resource to ensure the safety of those missing. Authorities are actively overseeing the situation, providing immediate medical care to those who have been rescued, and collaborating with various agencies to tackle the challenges presented by the harsh weather conditions.
The unwavering commitment and determination of the rescue teams, along with the backing of state and central authorities, instill hope for the safe return of the remaining workers. As events continue to develop, the nation stands united in thoughts and prayers for all those impacted by this heartbreaking incident.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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Arhan Ali is a sharp observer of economic and political currents, known for blending keen analysis with a dash of wit. Whether dissecting global trade wars or taking a playful jab at social absurdities, his writing strikes the perfect balance between intellect and irreverence.
