Forty-nine of the 55 Border Roads Organisation workers trapped in an avalanche near Mana village in Badrinath have been rescued. One worker has died, and another is in critical condition. A rescue operation is underway to save the remaining 5 personnel. Six helicopters have been deployed to evacuate the rescued workers to Joshimath for medical care.
The avalanche struck between 5:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. on Friday, trapping 55 workers inside eight containers and a shed. By Friday night, 33 workers had been rescued, but heavy snowfall and rain forced authorities to suspend the search overnight. As the weather cleared on Saturday, helicopters joined the operation to speed up evacuations.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial survey of the affected area and directed officials to intensify rescue efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Dhami and assured him of full central government support.
Officials warned that worsening weather could slow down the rescue mission. Army helicopters continue to make sorties, and authorities remain hopeful of locating the remaining five workers. Dhami assured that the state government is working swiftly to ensure the safety of those affected.
(With inputs from agencies)