CHAMOLI: A devastating incident occurred on the banks of the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district on July 19, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 15 lives and leaving several others injured. The cause of this unfortunate event was an explosion of a power transformer. Among the deceased, three police inspectors and three home guards, including the outpost in charge of Pipalkoti, tragically lost their lives, as confirmed by Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Kumar in an interview with ANI.

The initial investigation suggests that the railing had an electric current running through it, which contributed to the incident. V Murugesan, Additional Director General of Police in Uttarakhand, stated that a total of 15 individuals, including a police sub-inspector and five home guards, lost their lives. The investigation is still underway, and further details will be revealed as it progresses.

Expressing his condolences, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami described the incident as deeply saddening. He emphasized that the district administration, police, and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were promptly deployed to the scene. The injured individuals are being transferred to AIIMS Rishikesh via helicopter and are receiving the necessary medical attention. CM Dhami also ordered a Magisterial inquiry into the incident to ensure a comprehensive examination of the matter.

Meanwhile, Uttarakhand has been experiencing incessant rainfall in both hilly and plain areas over the past nine days. This prolonged rainfall has resulted in a significant rise in the water levels of rivers across the state. In response, the SDRF has issued a high alert, instructing its personnel to remain vigilant. SDRF Commandant Manikant Mishra has directed the various SDRF teams to maintain a state of readiness during these circumstances.

Considering the potential danger posed by the increasing water levels of the Ganga River, SDRF officers and jawans have been advised to stay on constant alert. The situation calls for continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure the safety of the affected areas.

Transformer Blast Claims Lives on Alakananda River Bank in Chamoli