A massive avalanche struck Badrinath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, leaving 47 workers trapped near Mana village. The workers, who were engaged in clearing snow for army movement, were caught in the disaster when a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp was hit.Rescue operations are underway, with the Indian Army, ITBP, and Garhwal Scouts actively working to save those trapped under the snow. Ten workers have been rescued and moved to an army camp in Mana for medical attention. However, the situation remains critical due to continued snowfall and difficult terrain.
 

Rescue Efforts and Challenges

The trapped workers are believed to be employed by a private agency contracted by the BRO. Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed that there are no reported casualties so far, but communication remains difficult due to the lack of satellite phones in the area.
 

The Indian Army’s Central Command released a statement confirming the incident, stating:

"An avalanche struck a GREF camp near Mana village in the Garhwal sector. A number of labourers are feared to be trapped. The Indian Army’s IBEX Brigade swiftly launched rescue operations despite continuing heavy snowfall and minor avalanches. So far, 10 personnel have been rescued and are being provided medical aid by the Army. Additional troops and equipment are being moved forward to the location." According to reports, 57 workers were present at the site when the avalanche hit. Some managed to escape, while others remain trapped under snow and debris. The Uttarakhand Police Headquarters spokesperson, IG Nilesh Anand Bharne, stated that those rescued are in critical condition and are being treated by military medical teams.
 

The BRO, administration, ITBP, and Garhwal Scouts are leading the rescue efforts, assisted by local volunteers. A high-altitude rescue team from Joshimath was immediately dispatched, while additional teams stationed in Gauchar and Sahastradhara, Dehradun, remain on standby.However, severe weather conditions are hindering rescue operations. BRO Executive Engineer CR Meena stated that three to four ambulances have been rushed to the location, but reaching the avalanche site remains a challenge due to heavy snowfall.
 

Uttarakhand Government’s Response and Future Measures

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his concern over the incident and prayed for the safe rescue of the workers. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he said:

"Sad news was received about many workers being buried under an avalanche during the construction work being carried out by BRO near Mana village in Chamoli district. Relief and rescue operations are being carried out by ITBP, BRO, and other rescue teams. I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all the labour brothers." The Uttarakhand government has ordered immediate action, with state disaster relief teams deployed to assist in the rescue efforts.
 

Despite the ongoing efforts, the heavy snowfall of the past two days has significantly slowed progress. The situation remains critical, and officials are working around the clock to rescue the remaining trapped workers.The disaster has once again highlighted the risks faced by workers involved in high-altitude infrastructure projects, especially during winter months when avalanche risks are high. Authorities are expected to re-evaluate safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.As rescue operations continue, updates from the Indian Army, ITBP, and state authorities will provide further clarity on the situation. All efforts remain focused on ensuring the safe evacuation of the remaining 47 workers trapped in the avalanche-hit area.