Uttarakhand SDRF Launches Major Rescue Operations After Heavy Snowfall Hits Himalayan Districts
In a significant emergency response effort, Uttarakhand's State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) executed large-scale rescue operations on Friday, utilizing heavy machinery to evacuate more than 80 individuals stranded in remote areas across Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, and Nainital districts. This action followed intense snowfall that swept through the state's higher Himalayan regions, marking the season's first major winter precipitation.
Snowfall Brings Relief and Disruption to Uttarakhand
The recent snowfall provided much-needed relief after a record dry spell in Uttarakhand, but it also severely disrupted movement and accessibility in high-altitude areas. Triggered by an active western disturbance, the snowfall led to challenging conditions, with areas such as Harsil, Gangotri, and Yamunotri recording significant snow during the morning hours. Additionally, locations like Gangnani, Sankri, and Jakhol remained under a thick snow cover, complicating travel and daily activities.
Detailed Rescue Efforts Across Multiple Districts
In Uttarkashi district, the SDRF focused on the Ujeli area, where around 75 people were stranded in the Chorangi region. As snowfall intensified, rescue teams successfully moved these individuals to safer locations, ensuring their safety amid the worsening weather conditions.
In Nainital district, SDRF teams worked diligently to clear snow-clogged roads near the Dhanachuli area on the Mukteshwar route. This effort restored movement for approximately 25 vehicles that had been halted by the accumulation of snow, alleviating transportation bottlenecks in the region.
In Tehri Garhwal district, another SDRF team rescued eight people from Badiyar village. These individuals had sought help after being trapped in heavy snow and were unable to reach safety on their own, highlighting the critical role of disaster response forces in such emergencies.
Weather Alerts and Future Forecasts
Authorities had issued an orange alert for several districts, including Uttarkashi, Dehradun, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh, warning residents of potential hazards from the snowfall. According to the meteorological centre, another western disturbance is expected to affect the region from January 26, which could bring fresh rain and snowfall on January 27 and 28. This forecast underscores the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in Uttarakhand's vulnerable areas.
The SDRF's proactive measures demonstrate the importance of robust disaster management systems in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities in remote Himalayan regions.
