Rescue of 413 Pilgrims through a Zipline in India Amidst Persistent Flash Floods
Headline: Ongoing Rescue Efforts and Suspension of Kinnaur Kailash Yatra Due to Flash Floods in Himachal Pradesh
In the heart of Himachal Pradesh, rescue operations are underway following a devastating flash flood that swept through the Tangling area along the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra route, leaving hundreds of pilgrims stranded.
The flood, triggered by a massive cloudburst on August 6, washed away key infrastructure, including makeshift bridges at Tanglippi and Kangarang, and severely damaged the trekking paths, making them slippery and unsafe due to landslides.
Rescue Operations and Pilgrim Status
Over the past 24 hours, approximately 1,196 pilgrims have been rescued. Initially, 413 were rescued at Tangling, followed by 553 the next day, and about 230 more from the Gufa through Punwani area. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Kinnaur Tourism Authority have been actively involved in these efforts.
Rescue operations have included rope-based traverse crossings and bringing stranded pilgrims to safer places such as the Shongtong Army Camp, where relief shelters and medical facilities have been established. Authorities confirm that all rescued pilgrims are safe and are receiving food, shelter, and healthcare.
Suspension of the Yatra
Due to the altered terrain and persistent heavy rains, the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra has been suspended. The Yatra will resume only after conditions improve and safety can be guaranteed.
Additional Reported Incidents
The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reported a total of 194 deaths in Himachal Pradesh during the monsoon season from June 20 to August 5 this year. The report details significant damage to houses, with 194 fully damaged and 301 partially damaged. The SDMA report also includes 86 fatalities from road accidents across the state during the same period.
In the district of Shimla, most educational institutions have been closed due to the disruptions caused by heavy rainfall. The SDMA report does not mention any rescue operations by the ITBP or NDRF.
Weather Updates
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a weather warning at 6.30 am today, forecasting light to moderate rainfall at most places in Himachal Pradesh. A few spells of intense to very intense rainfall are likely in the districts of Bilaspur, Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Mandi.
Continued Efforts
The ITBP remains committed to supporting the district administration and other agencies in the relief efforts for the stranded pilgrims. As rescue operations continue, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.
In the unsettled weather conditions of Himachal Pradesh, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall, with a possibility of intense spells in several districts.
Meanwhile, the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra, disrupted by flash floods and landslides, remains suspended until safety can be guaranteed. The ITBP, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Kinnaur Tourism Authority are coordinating their efforts to resume the Yatra once conditions improve.
Apart from the Yatra, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has reported extensive damage due to the monsoon season, with 194 deaths, 194 fully damaged houses, and 301 partially damaged houses in Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, 86 road accidents have resulted in fatalities.
In the district of Shimla, schools have been closed due to heavy rainfall, and the SDMA report does not mention any rescue operations by the ITBP or NDRF in that area.
Financial support for the relief efforts is being directed towards the stranded pilgrims, their care, and rebuilding essential infrastructure destroyed by the flash floods. The business sector and general news outlets are actively reporting these incidents in an effort to keep the public informed.
Scientists focused on environmental science and climate-change research will also be examining the causes and impacts of these extreme weather events, aiming to address preventive measures in the future to ensure the well-being of people and the environment in Himachal Pradesh.
