57 Workers Trapped in Massive Avalanche at Mana, Uttarakhand; 15 Rescued, Operations Ongoing

 

Gopeshwar (Uttarakhand) : A massive avalanche struck near Mana village in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, burying 57 workers involved in a construction project under the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Rescue operations by BRO and other agencies have so far saved 15 workers, while the search for the remaining trapped individuals is ongoing.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his concern over the incident on social media. He stated that BRO and other agencies are engaged in rescue efforts on a war footing and prayed to Lord Badrivishal for the safety of all the workers.

Inspector General of Police (SDRF), Ridhim Aggarwal, confirmed that 57 workers were affected by the avalanche. According to the BRO commandant, 15 workers have been rescued, while 42 remain missing. An SDRF team has been dispatched from Joshimath, but roadblocks near Lambagad due to heavy snowfall are delaying access. Efforts are underway with the army to clear the route. Another rescue team is on standby at Sahastradhara Helipad, ready for aerial deployment once weather conditions improve.

The SDRF is coordinating with district administration, BRO, and the army. Drone-assisted operations are being prepared but are currently hindered by heavy snowfall.

So far, five more individuals have been rescued. Among them, three injured workers have been admitted to the army hospital in Mana, while two others are in stable condition.

Rescue Status:

Total workers trapped: 57
Rescued: 15
Missing: 42
Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari stated that the affected workers were clearing snow from roads for army movement when the avalanche struck. No casualties have been confirmed yet. Teams from the Indian Army, ITBP, NDRF, and SDRF have been deployed to the site. Officials have been instructed to expedite relief and rescue operations.