Stranded in Uttarkashi snow, 29 trekkers airlifted; rescue operation on for more

All 29 trekkers stranded at Auden’s Col in Uttarkashi district were successfully airlifted to Harsil on Monday, offering a glimmer of hope amid ongoing rescue efforts. Despite the relief, authorities persist in their mission to reach the 106 trekkers stranded across 10 additional routes in the district. The rescued individuals were transported by helicopter to an Army hospital in Harsil for initial medical checks.

All 29 trekkers were reported to be in good health and stable condition. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Shalini Negi confirmed their safe arrival at Harsil and emphasized that their well-being was under constant monitoring. The rescue mission, led by the State Disaster Response Force, district police, Indian Army, local administration, and Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority, involved intricate coordination.

SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi highlighted the critical role of inter-agency collaboration in facilitating the evacuation. The rescue operation was fraught with challenges, including rapidly shifting weather patterns and treacherous Himalayan terrain, which underscore the inherent risks associated with high-altitude trekking. Meanwhile, a separate rescue operation in Gangotri National Park successfully brought 121 trekkers stranded by heavy snowfall to safety.

The trekkers, who had been camping in the Gaumukh and Tapovan areas, faced hazardous conditions including snowfall and potential avalanche risks. Forest Department officials commend the careful execution of the rescue despite the challenging circumstances. However, 43 trekkers remain stranded in Bageshwar's Pindari Glacier area, with no updates on their whereabouts.

Despite the progress made in the rescue operations, the continued presence of stranded groups highlights the persistent challenges posed by unpredictable weather and rugged terrain in the region.