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Avalanche Hits Near Badrinath; 57 Labourers Trapped, Army Rescue Operation Underway

A deadly avalanche buried 57 workers in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand

by Jyotismita
Avalanche Hits Near Badrinath; 57 Labourers Trapped, Army Rescue Operation Underway

A deadly avalanche buried 57 workers in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, close to the border village of Mana, a mere five kilometers from the holy Badrinath temple. Authorities confirmed that 16 of the 57 workers at the site have been rescued and taken to the army camp near Mana in critical condition so far.

Avalanche In Badrinath: Rescue Operations In Adverse Weather

After the Badrinath avalanche, rescue forces, including the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), were sent to the area. Heavy snowfall has hindered relief efforts substantially, though. BRO Executive Engineer CR Meena said three to four ambulances have been sent, but due to road blockages, they are being delayed.

At present, 60-65 staff are engaged in the operation. The army has been requested to clear the Lambagad route, which is still impassable.

In the meantime, an SDRF team has been sent out from Joshimath, and another team is waiting at Sahastradhara helipad to be airlifted as soon as the weather permits. Even drones have been contemplated for searching for survivors, but heavy snowfall has rendered aerial operations impossible.

Also Read: Uttarakhand To Get Two New Treks; Janaktal Trek, 17,716 Ft Above Sea Level, Will Be World’s 2nd Highest Trek

Weather Warnings and Government Action

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has put out an orange alert for Uttarakhand, with expected heavy rain and snow over hilly regions. The effects include road blockages, waterlogging, poor visibility, and possible interference with rescue operations.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was also concerned, and he said that he was upset over the mishap and is keeping a close eye on the situation. He wrote on social media that he informed citizens that rescue efforts were at full throttle and prayed for the safety of trapped workers.

While teams battle severe weather to remove the remaining workers, the accident has the effect of highlighting the dangerous risks of labor in high-altitude regions. With the entire nation waiting with bated breath for a safe evacuation, this accident brings to the fore the urgent need for stronger safety measures in such hazardous locations.

Also Read: Uttarakhand’s Glaciers Have Shrunk Over 21 Sq. Km In 23 Years According To A Study

The authorities are working tirelessly, praying for a quick and safe evacuation.

Cover Image Courtesy: @ddnews_guwahati/X 

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First Published: February 28, 2025 3:21 PM