Avalanche in Uttarakhand Claims Four Lives and Leaves Several Missing

A tragic avalanche in Uttarakhand, India, has claimed at least four lives, with several individuals missing. Rescue operations continue as authorities mobilize resources to locate the unaccounted workers, with reports indicating the area is frequented by laborers during winter. Heavy rainfall and snow warnings were issued, suggesting worsening weather conditions in the region.

An avalanche in Uttarakhand, northern India, has resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals, with several others reported missing. The incident took place on Friday in the village of Mana, close to the Tibetan border, where road construction workers were impacted. Authorities confirmed that 50 individuals buried under snow and debris were rescued, though four succumbed to their injuries.

A rescue operation is currently in motion, utilizing helicopters to locate five individuals unaccounted for amidst the avalanche’s aftermath. Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that rescue teams are actively engaged in relief efforts in the wake of this disaster, which affected a camp of the Border Roads Organisation.

Rescue operations have been challenging, as footage circulated on X showed rescuers navigating deep snow while managing the injured. Gaurav Kunwar, a former village council member, described the affected area as a “migratory area” where seasonal laborers and some military presence exist during the winter months. He informed that continuous rainfall prior to the avalanche could have contributed to this tragic event.

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy rain and snowfall in northern regions, particularly Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, with orange alerts activated for several districts. The severe weather conditions may have exacerbated the risks associated with the avalanche in the mountainous terrain of India.

The avalanche in Uttarakhand has resulted in significant loss of life and ongoing search efforts for missing individuals. The challenges in rescue operations underscore the dangerous conditions created by recent weather events. As authorities continue their relief efforts, the situation remains critical for those impacted by this natural disaster.

Original Source: www.bbc.com