A devastating avalanche hit the Mana region in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, on Friday, trapping at least 57 workers associated with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). These workers were engaged in road construction work near the India-China border when the incident occurred. 33 labourers have been rescued so far, while efforts continue to locate and extricate the remaining individuals.

Massive Rescue Operation Launched

Authorities quickly mobilized teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to the disaster site. Given the challenging high-altitude terrain and ongoing snowfall, rescue operations are proving to be complex and dangerous.

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of those trapped. He conducted an emergency meeting at the State Disaster Control Room to review the ongoing operations.

"We are making every possible effort to rescue all trapped individuals as soon as possible," Dhami stated.

Amit Shah Speaks to Uttarakhand CM

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been in contact with Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, ITBP DG, and NDRF DG, closely monitoring the situation. Shah emphasized the need for swift action and full deployment of resources to ensure the safety of the trapped workers.

Heavy Snowfall Hindering Rescue Operations

The avalanche struck a BRO construction site, burying multiple workers under heavy snow and debris. Uttarakhand Police spokesperson IG Nilesh Anand Bharne confirmed that BRO Executive Engineer C.R. Meena has dispatched multiple ambulances, but rescue teams are struggling against extreme weather conditions.

"Three to four ambulances are at the site, but continuous snowfall is making access difficult," he stated.

Several high-altitude rescue teams from SDRF and local authorities are on standby for further assistance if conditions worsen.

16 Rescued Workers in Critical Condition

Among those rescued, 16 individuals are in serious condition and have been rushed to the hospital for urgent medical treatment. The condition of the remaining trapped workers remains uncertain as rescue teams work tirelessly to locate and evacuate them.

High Alert Issued in the Region

Authorities have issued a high alert for potential further avalanches and snow slides in the region. With more snowfall expected, the risk of additional disasters remains high, prompting officials to mobilize more rescue teams and specialized equipment.

Challenges in the Rescue Effort

• Remote Location: The affected area is in a high-altitude zone, making accessibility difficult.
• Severe Weather: Heavy snowfall continues, complicating rescue operations.
• Avalanche Risk: Further snow slides pose a danger to both the trapped workers and rescue teams.

Government’s Response and Public Advisory

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has assured that all possible resources are being utilized to bring the situation under control. Emergency teams are on high alert, and additional personnel are being mobilized to speed up rescue efforts.

Residents and travelers are advised to avoid unnecessary movement in avalanche-prone areas. Officials have also urged people to follow weather warnings and updates from disaster management authorities.

Final Thoughts

The Uttarakhand avalanche has triggered a large-scale rescue operation, highlighting the dangers of working in high-altitude, extreme weather conditions. While 33 workers have been rescued, efforts continue to locate the remaining trapped individuals.

With rescue teams battling harsh weather and difficult terrain, the next few hours will be critical in determining the fate of the trapped workers. The government, along with disaster response forces, is working relentlessly to ensure that all those affected receive prompt help and medical attention.

This remains a developing story, and updates will follow as new information emerges.

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