Uttarakhand: 57 workers get trapped as avalanche hits Chamoli, 32 rescued so far as operation continues – Top developments

A massive avalanche struck Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district near Mana village, trapping 57 workers engaged in construction under the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). A large-scale rescue operation was launched, with 15 workers already pulled to safety while efforts continue to free the remaining 42. The operation is being spearheaded by the Garhwal 9th Brigade and BRO, with support from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and local authorities.

Rescue operation in Mana continues amid harsh weather

The Indian Army’s avalanche rescue operation in Mana remains relentless despite severe weather conditions and ongoing snowfall. Efforts to clear the road are underway to evacuate the injured and deploy additional rescue teams. On-site Army doctors have performed critical life-saving surgeries on severely injured individuals.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has confirmed that 22 laborers managed to escape and have been located in Badrinath. As the #FirstResponders, the Indian Army is making every effort to rescue the remaining trapped individuals at the earliest possible time.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took to social media to express concern, praying for the workers’ safety and confirming that rescue efforts are in full swing. Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari noted that heavy snowfall and communication challenges are complicating the operation. Despite harsh weather conditions, authorities remain determined to reach those still trapped.

The avalanche occurred despite an earlier warning for the Lahaul and Spiti region. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assured full support, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that additional NDRF teams were on their way.

By 5:00 pm, the Uttarakhand disaster management department reported that 32 of the 57 trapped workers had been successfully rescued. Efforts are ongoing to evacuate the remaining 25.

“The evacuation of the remaining 25 people is in progress. Relief and rescue operations are being conducted on a war footing to save those trapped in the avalanche, 6 km ahead of Badrinath Dham in Chamoli district,” the department stated.