Uttarakhand Avalanche LIVE Updates: Rescue Efforts Underway as 24 Workers Feared Trapped

Mana village Avlanche rescue operation

February 28, 2025 | Chamoli, Uttarakhand

A devastating avalanche struck Mana Village in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district in the early hours of Friday, February 28, 2025, leaving 24 workers missing as rescue operations battle extreme weather conditions. The avalanche, triggered by the breaking of the Satopanth Glacier, buried a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp near the Mana-Badrinath route.

Key Developments:

Workers Trapped: The missing individuals include construction workers, JCB operators, and other machine workers who were sleeping inside a container when the avalanche hit.
Rescue Operations:
- Teams from the Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) are leading the rescue efforts.
- The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have deployed additional personnel.
- Four NDRF teams have been sent, with two arriving from Dehradun and two from Joshimath.
- Heavy snowfall and rough terrain are hampering the rescue mission.
Government Response:
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed immediate action and mobilization of resources.
- Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has assured full support and coordination with the central government.
- Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and assessing damage.
Weather Challenges:
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had previously warned of heavy snowfall in the region.
- More snowfall is expected in the coming days, adding to the difficulty of rescue operations.
Public Advisory:
- Authorities have urged tourists and pilgrims traveling to Badrinath and nearby areas to avoid travel until further notice.
- Locals have been advised to stay indoors and follow official safety guidelines.

Conclusion:

The Mana Village avalanche is a stark reminder of the risks posed by climate change and the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas. With rescue teams working tirelessly under harsh conditions, the focus remains on saving lives and restoring normalcy. Further updates are awaited as operations continue.