In a tragic incident on Friday, an avalanche struck Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, specifically near the border village of Mana, resulting in at least 57 workers feared trapped under the snow. The affected individuals are laborers associated with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), engaged in road construction activities in the region.
Incident Details
The avalanche occurred in the early hours near a BRO camp situated between Mana and Badrinath. Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed the incident, stating that the avalanche buried a BRO camp, leading to the entrapment of 57 workers. Mana village, located at an altitude of approximately 3,200 meters, is the last Indian village before the Indo-Tibet border.
Rescue Operations
Rescue efforts commenced promptly, with teams from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Indian Army, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) mobilized to the site. Despite the challenging weather conditions, including ongoing snowfall and rain, these teams are striving to reach the affected area.
Colonel Ankur Mahajan, the commander of the BRO, reported that ten workers have been rescued and are receiving medical attention at a nearby army camp. However, the extent of their injuries remains unclear. He emphasized the difficulties faced by rescue teams due to the inaccessibility of the area, compounded by blocked roads and disrupted communication lines.
Challenges Faced
The rescue operations are hindered by severe weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and rain, which have rendered the area inaccessible. Multiple landslides have blocked roads leading to the site, and there is a lack of mobile and radio connectivity, making coordination efforts more complex. Teams are working diligently to clear the roads and establish communication to facilitate the rescue mission.
Official Statements
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep concern over the incident, stating, “We have received the tragic news of several workers, engaged in a construction project by BRO near Mana village in Chamoli district, being trapped due to an avalanche. Rescue and relief operations are underway by ITBP, BRO, and other teams. I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all the workers.”
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Historical Context
This incident adds to a series of natural disasters that have impacted Uttarakhand in recent years. The region’s susceptibility to avalanches and flash floods has raised concerns about the safety of workers involved in infrastructure projects in these high-altitude areas. In February 2021, a portion of the Nanda Devi glacier broke off, leading to massive flooding in the Rishiganga and Dhauliganga rivers, resulting in significant loss of life and property.
Safety Measures and Precautions
In light of the recurring natural calamities, authorities have been urged to implement stringent safety protocols for workers in vulnerable regions. This includes regular monitoring of weather conditions, timely issuance of alerts, and ensuring that workers are equipped with necessary safety gear and training to handle such emergencies.
Conclusion
As rescue operations continue amidst challenging conditions, the focus remains on locating and saving the trapped workers. The incident underscores the need for enhanced safety measures and preparedness to protect those working in disaster-prone areas. The thoughts and prayers of the nation are with the affected individuals and their families during this difficult time.
