55 Workers Trapped in Uttarakhand Avalanche – 33 Rescued, 22 Still Missing
Landslide Blocks Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway, Uttarakhand Issues Emergency Helplines
Heavy Rainfall Triggers Landslide, Stranding Workers and Blocking Key Highway
The Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway has been closed due to a massive landslide near Karnaprayag, Uttarakhand. Persistent rainfall and falling debris have made the route impassable, causing significant disruptions for travelers and pilgrims. Authorities are actively working to clear the highway and ensure the safety of those affected.
Rescue Efforts Underway in Chamoli After Avalanche
The situation worsened following an avalanche in Chamoli district, which trapped workers under heavy snow. The avalanche struck a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp near Mana village in Badrinath.
- 33 workers have been rescued so far.
- Search continues for the remaining 22 trapped workers.
- Officials confirm that two of the 57 workers were on leave at the time of the incident.
Rescue teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local administration are tirelessly working to locate and evacuate the remaining workers.
Areas Affected and Current Road Conditions
The highway remains blocked at multiple points, particularly around:
- Animath
- Pagal Nala (in Jyotirmath Kotwali area)
Heavy rainfall continues to pose a challenge for rescue operations and road-clearing efforts.
Emergency Helpline Numbers Issued
To assist those affected, the Uttarakhand government has released the following emergency contact numbers:
- Mobile: 8218867005, 9058441404
- Telephone: 0135 2664315
- Toll-Free: 1070
Travelers and residents are advised to use these helplines for emergency assistance and updates on road conditions.
Government Assures Support and Immediate Action
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured full support from the central government. In a statement, he said:
“Spoke to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, DG ITBP, and DG NDRF regarding the glacier burst in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. Our priority is to safely evacuate the people trapped in the accident.”
BRO, ITBP, and NDRF Lead Rescue Efforts
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are actively coordinating relief efforts. Teams are using heavy machinery to remove debris and rescue stranded individuals.
Impact on Travel and Pilgrimage
The Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway is a critical route for pilgrims traveling to the sacred town of Badrinath. With road access blocked, pilgrims and tourists are advised to delay their travel plans until further notice from the authorities.
Safety Advisory for Travelers
- Avoid traveling on the affected highway until clearance is confirmed.
- Stay updated through official channels and helpline numbers.
- Follow government advisories and warnings related to weather conditions.
- Carry emergency supplies if traveling in the region.
Weather Forecast and Road Clearance Efforts
Meteorological reports suggest that rainfall may continue, posing further risks of landslides and roadblocks. Authorities are working to clear the debris and reopen the highway as soon as possible.
Heavy-duty earthmovers and rescue vehicles have been deployed, and additional manpower has been assigned to speed up the process.
Conclusion: A Race Against Time
The landslide and avalanche in Uttarakhand have caused a major disruption on the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway, but swift action by rescue teams is ensuring the safety of those affected. With ongoing relief efforts, authorities hope to reopen the highway and restore normalcy soon.
Travelers and locals are urged to stay informed, use emergency contacts if needed, and prioritize safety during adverse weather conditions.
