Northern India is grappling with severe winter weather, marked by heavy snowfall, landslides, and devastating avalanches. The states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir have been hit the hardest, with rescue operations underway to save those trapped under the snow.
Here’s a detailed look at the situation unfolding across these regions:
Uttarakhand: The Chamoli Avalanche
On February 27, 2025, a catastrophic avalanche struck a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) construction site in Mana village, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. The disaster buried 57 workers under snow and debris, leaving many trapped.
By March 1, rescuers had managed to pull out 50 workers, but four succumbed to their injuries. Five workers remain missing, and rescue efforts continue despite challenging weather conditions.
The avalanche occurred near the India-Tibet border, where workers were engaged in a highway expansion project. The area is known for its harsh terrain and unpredictable weather, making rescue operations extremely difficult.
Teams from
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Indian Army are working tirelessly to locate the remaining trapped workers.
Himachal Pradesh: Landslides and Snowfall
Himachal Pradesh is facing its own set of challenges due to relentless snowfall and torrential rains. The districts of Kullu, Mandi, and Lahaul-Spiti have witnessed flash floods, landslides, and widespread power outages.
Over 200 roads are blocked, isolating several towns and villages. An avalanche warning has been issued for high-risk areas, advising residents to restrict outdoor movement.
Keylong remains buried under thick layers of snow, complicating access and communication. Educational institutions have been closed in Chamba and Manali, except for CBSE Board examinations, which will proceed as scheduled.
Jammu & Kashmir: Travel Disruptions
Jammu & Kashmir is also battling the effects of heavy snowfall. The higher reaches, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam, are blanketed in fresh snow, causing significant travel delays.
The strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was reopened for light motor vehicles after being closed due to heavy snowfall and landslides in the Ramban district. However, the region remains vulnerable to further disruptions.
The extreme weather has not only disrupted daily life but also posed a significant threat to residents and travelers. Authorities are urging caution and have extended winter vacations for schools in affected areas to ensure safety.
Rescue teams are working around the clock to assist those trapped or stranded. The Indian Army and other emergency services are providing medical aid and logistical support to affected communities.
The recent avalanches and snowfall in northern India highlight the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.
