255 people rescued from Chandertal and Batal
Shimla/ Kaza, July 13
In a successful four-day rescue operation, 255 individuals trapped in Chandertal and Batal have been safely rescued. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu personally arrived at Losar to oversee the rescue mission.
The rescue team, led by ADC Rahul Jain, worked tirelessly to ensure the safe evacuation of the trapped individuals. Tribal Minister Jagat Singh Negi and Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthi were also present to supervise the rescue efforts. Their guidance and support were instrumental in the successful operation.
The operation began when a team of local youths from Losar villageBatal informed the authorities about the stranded individuals. Immediately upon receiving this information, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh instructed the deployment of additional rescue teams, emphasizing the need for swift action.
A group of local Spiti youths, equipped with vehicles, was dispatched to Batal to aid in the rescue efforts. At midnight, 52 people were rescued from Batal and safely transported to Losar.
Also read:Rescue party reaches stranded tourists at majestic Chandertal Lake in Lahaul & Spiti in HP
Simultaneously, efforts were underway to clear the snow-covered road leading to Chandertal. Despite facing challenging conditions, three JCBs, including private operators, the Border Roads Organization (BRO), and company personnel, were pressed into service. Their combined efforts allowed for the gradual reopening of the road on Wednesday late evening.
Regular updates on the rescue operation were provided to Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh via satellite communication. The Chief Minister urged for the immediate rescue of the stranded individuals, emphasizing their safety as a top priority.
Following a meeting with SP Mayank Chaudhary, ADC Rahul Jain, and other officials, it was decided to continue the rescue operation from 0530hrs, today. At approximately 1500hrs, the first group of rescued tourists arrived at Losar, where they were warmly welcomed by the Losar Mahila Mandal.
The successful operation was made possible by the collective efforts of various stakeholders. Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi expressed his gratitude to the JCB operators, the Losar and Pangmo youths, and several other individuals who contributed to the rescue mission. Their dedication and bravery were recognized with honors and rewards.
Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi also announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh for the Losar Mahila Mandal and Yuvak Mandal, who played an integral role in the rescue. Additionally, rescue training camps will be organized for these groups to enhance their preparedness in future emergencies.
Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthi praised the local community for their remarkable efforts in the rescue operation. He specifically acknowledged JCB operator Sukhdev, who tirelessly operated the JCB for 18 to 21 hours, contributing to the restoration of the road. The Spiti administration officials were also commended for their efficient execution of the rescue operation.
The rescue operation serves as a testament to the resilience, solidarity, and spirit of cooperation among the people of Chandertal, Batal, and the entire rescue team.
Further updates on the situation are expected in the coming time as the rescued individuals receive necessary support and arrangements are being made for their onward travel.
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