A massive avalanche struck a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp near Mana village in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on Friday morning. A total of 47 workers have been rescued so far, while the search for the remaining 8 continues with operations being carried out on a war footing. Two Indian Air Force (IAF) Mi-17 helicopters have been deployed for heli-rescue missions from Joshimath Base Camp to Badrinath Dham. Nearly seven feet of snow has accumulated in the affected area, significantly complicating rescue efforts. Over 150 personnel are involved in the mission, working around the clock to locate and extract those still trapped under the snow. The avalanche buried eight containers, and a hut that housed workers engaged in road construction. The trapped workers hail from Uttarak hand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. Authorities are hopeful of rescuing the remaining workers soon as efforts continue against all odds. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255 or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
