Rescue Missions in Full Swing in Kedarnath After Deadly Cloudburst and Landslides

Following a catastrophic cloudburst and landslides on the Kedarnath Yatra route that claimed 15 lives, rescue operations are in full swing. Teams from NDRF, SDRF, and the Indian Air Force have evacuated over 9000 people. Increased efforts are also underway to assist stranded animals and maintain essential supplies.

By Amrit Prakash

Following a devastating cloudburst and subsequent landslides that resulted in 15 casualties along the Kedarnath Yatra route, formidable rescue operations have been launched involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Indian Air Force.

Rescue teams managed to save over 1500 pilgrims and locals on Saturday. Anil Baluni, Member of Parliament from Garhwal, visited the affected regions in Rudraprayag and engaged with officials orchestrating the rescue and relief efforts. “Our primary focus remains on rescuing the stranded and providing them with essential food and medical facilities. It is reassuring that they are safe and in constant contact with the administration,” he stated.

The Animal Husbandry Department of Rudraprayag has also been proactive in sending animal feed via helicopters for mules and horses marooned by the landslides. Dr Ashish Rawat, Chief Veterinary Officer, pointed out the challenges in transporting supplies due to blocked routes, but affirmed that efforts are in place to support animal welfare. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman reported that 9,099 individuals have been rescued so far, with ongoing operations striving to evacuate all who are stranded. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is personally overseeing the extensive rescue initiatives to ensure the safety of all affected.

(With inputs from agencies.)