CHAMOLI-UTTARAKHAND: An avalanche hit Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district near Mana village on Friday, February 28, 2025, trapping 57 workers from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). So far, 16 workers have been rescued, while 41 remain trapped under the snow. The BRO is responsible for building roads in remote areas and works closely with the Indian Armed Forces.

The avalanche struck near Mana, which is about five kilometers from the famous Badrinath temple. The affected workers were engaged in road construction work in the border region. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with teams from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Indian Army working tirelessly to save those still trapped.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed that 16 workers have been rescued and taken to an army camp near Mana village. Unfortunately, heavy snowfall has made rescue operations difficult. According to BRO Executive Engineer CR Meena, three to four ambulances have been sent to the site, but the snow is causing delays.

Around 60-65 personnel are involved in the rescue mission. A State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) team has been dispatched from Joshimath, but the route through Lambagad is blocked due to snow. The army is working to clear the way. Another SDRF team is on standby at Sahastradhara helipad, ready to be airlifted when weather conditions improve.

The SDRF has also deployed drones to assist with the operation, but the heavy snowfall is making drone surveillance impossible. Inspector General of Police (SDRF), Ridhim Agarwal, stated that teams are on high alert and ready to act as soon as conditions allow.

Weather Conditions Adding to Challenges

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Uttarakhand and other hilly regions, warning of very heavy rainfall up to 20 cm until late Friday night. The bad weather is causing road blockages, waterlogging, and delays in rescue operations.

Officials are urging people to avoid unnecessary travel as visibility is low, and traffic disruptions are expected. The situation remains critical, and rescue teams are working against the clock to save the remaining trapped workers.

What is Avalanche?

An avalanche is when a large amount of snow suddenly rushes down a mountain or hillside. It can happen on its own due to heavy snowfall or a weak snowpack, or it can be triggered by things like people, animals, or even earthquakes.