Heroic Kedarnath Rescue Operation Concludes Successfully

Over 15,000 people were rescued from the rain-ravaged Kedarnath trek route within a week. The coordinated effort involved airlifting and manual evacuation by several agencies. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami acknowledged the support from the Centre and local volunteers. Restoration work is underway for resuming the yatra.

The rescue operation along the rain-ravaged Kedarnath trek route concluded on Tuesday, successfully rescuing over 15,000 people. Among the rescued were both pilgrims and locals stranded in various spots during the seven-day exercise.

According to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, thousands were airlifted or evacuated manually in record time. Dhami extended gratitude to all involved agencies, including the SDRF, NDRF, and the Disaster Management department, as well as to the Centre and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for dispatching IAF Chinook MI17 helicopters.

Dhami, closely monitoring the operation and visiting affected areas, stated that priority now lies in reopening the yatra by road through repairs and reconstruction. Heavy rains on July 31 led to landslides that stranded thousands, forcing the yatra's suspension. Helicopter services are set to resume with a 25% ticket rebate for pilgrims.

(With inputs from agencies.)