Key Points:
- A massive avalanche struck near Mana village in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, trapping 57 workers engaged in road construction for the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
- Rescue teams from ITBP, SDRF, NDRF, and the Army have saved 16 workers so far; efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining 41.
- Heavy snowfall and disrupted communication have hampered rescue operations, with helicopters unable to operate due to adverse weather conditions.
- Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed concern and assured all possible rescue efforts while urging residents to avoid avalanche-prone areas.
Chamoli: A devastating avalanche struck Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district near Mana village India’s last village on the Indo-Tibetan border—on February 27, trapping 57 workers under snow and debris. These workers were engaged in a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) construction project on the National Highway connecting Mana to Ghastoli. The incident occurred after heavy snowfall over the past 48 hours triggered the glacier collapse.
Rescue operations are underway, with teams from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Army working tirelessly to save those trapped.
Rescue Operations Face Challenges Amid Harsh Weather
So far, 16 workers have been rescued and sent to an Army camp near Mana for medical attention. However, 41 workers remain trapped under layers of snow. District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed that heavy snowfall has made it difficult for rescue teams to reach the site. Helicopter services have been grounded due to persistent bad weather.
BRO Executive Engineer CR Meena stated that three to four ambulances have been dispatched to the site, but progress has been slow due to blocked roads and adverse conditions. Around 60-65 personnel are involved in the rescue mission, with additional high-altitude rescue teams on standby in Dehradun and Gauchar.
Impact of Avalanche
The avalanche caused significant damage to construction sites near the glacier. While no fatalities have been reported so far, officials remain concerned about the safety of those still trapped. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy snowfall across Uttarakhand’s higher altitudes, increasing the risk of further avalanches.
Authorities have also issued warnings to residents and travelers in nearby areas, advising them to avoid venturing into high-risk zones.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Reacts
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep concern over the incident and assured swift action. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“Sad news was received about many workers being buried under an avalanche during BRO’s construction work near Mana village in Chamoli district. Relief and rescue operations are being carried out by ITBP, BRO, and other teams. I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all our worker brothers.”
The Chief Minister also urged residents of high-altitude regions to take necessary precautions as weather conditions remain severe.
What Triggered the Avalanche?
Officials believe that heavy snowfall over the last two days led to a glacier collapse near Mana Pass, triggering the avalanche. The region is prone to such incidents due to its high altitude and extreme weather conditions. The IMD has predicted very heavy snowfall in altitudes above 3,500 meters, further complicating rescue efforts.
Coordinated Rescue Efforts
The following agencies are leading rescue operations:
- Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP): Deployed personnel trained in high-altitude rescues.
- State Disaster Response Force (SDRF): Teams dispatched from Joshimath and placed on standby in Dehradun.
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): Supporting with specialized equipment.
- Army’s Garhwal Brigade: Leading on-ground coordination efforts alongside BRO officials.
Despite challenging weather conditions, these teams are working round-the-clock to locate and rescue all trapped workers.
Precautionary Measures Issued
In light of this incident, authorities have advised residents and travelers:
- Avoid traveling to higher altitudes or avalanche-prone areas.
- Follow weather updates closely as heavy snowfall continues.
- Report any signs of impending avalanches or landslides immediately.
The IMD has warned of localized flooding, road blockages, and reduced visibility due to ongoing rainfall and snowstorms in Uttarakhand’s mountainous regions.
A Grim Reminder of Nature’s Fury
This avalanche is a stark reminder of the risks faced by those working in high-altitude regions like Chamoli. The incident has drawn attention to improving safety protocols for laborers working on infrastructure projects in these vulnerable areas.
As rescue operations continue amid harsh weather conditions, officials remain hopeful for more successful recoveries. For now, prayers pour in from across India for the safety of those still trapped under the snow.
