Glacier Burst in Badrinath Dham in Uttarakhand, Over 40 Construction Workers Feared Trapped, Many Rescued

Chamoli: A glacier burst in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district has triggered an avalanche near Mana, trapping 57 workers. According to sources, 16 workers have been rescued, while the search for the remaining 41 is underway. The avalanche buried a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp between Mana and Badrinath. The incident reportedly occurred near the National Highway connecting Mana to Ghastoli.

The trapped workers were employed under a BRO contract. The rescued workers have been rushed to a nearby army hospital but are said to be in critical condition.

Rescue Operations Underway Amid Heavy Snowfall

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Army, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) have been deployed to the site.

However, officials say heavy snowfall and continuous rain are disrupting rescue operations. The avalanche occurred just three kilometers from the Badrinath temple.

According to the BRO, construction work was underway on a gate in Mana village when an iceberg fell on the Gir camp, burying several workers on their way to work.

Officials Respond to the Disaster

Speaking to ANI, Police Headquarters Spokesperson IG Nilesh Anand Bharne stated, “A massive avalanche has occurred near the Border Roads Organisation camp in the border area of Mana, trapping 57 workers engaged in road construction. Out of these, 16 workers have been rescued and sent to the army camp near Mana in critical condition.”

Meanwhile, BRO Executive Engineer C.R. Meena confirmed that 57 workers were present at the site when the avalanche struck.

“Three to four ambulances have been sent, but due to heavy snowfall, rescue teams are facing difficulties in reaching the location,” Meena added.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Reacts

Reacting to the incident, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed that several workers were buried under the avalanche while working on a BRO project near Mana village in Chamoli district.

He assured that relief and rescue operations are ongoing, with ITBP, BRO, and other rescue teams working on-site. Additionally, the Air Force has been called for assistance.

“Sad news has been received about many workers being buried under an avalanche during the BRO construction work near Mana village in Chamoli district. Relief and rescue operations are being carried out by ITBP, BRO, and other teams. I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all the workers.”

Chamoli’s District Magistrate stated that due to heavy rainfall, helicopters cannot be deployed for rescue operations.“57 workers, part of teams that clear snow from high-altitude Himalayan roads, have been caught in an avalanche along India’s border with Tibet. There has been no update on their situation since the incident in the morning. The Army and police teams are leading the rescue efforts.”

“All rescue teams have been mobilized, but due to active rainfall, helicopter rescue options are not possible at the moment,” he added.

Chamoli Weather Update

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rain and snowfall in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and other districts. A western disturbance is expected to strengthen, bringing intense snowfall in higher regions and rain in the plains.

The IMD has warned that these weather conditions could cause road blockages and transportation disruptions. Residents in affected areas have been advised to take precautions and stay updated with official forecasts.

Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during the severe weather conditions. The BRO has been deployed to clear snow from key routes to ensure essential services remain operational.

As per the Meteorological Department, Dehradun, vehicle movement in the affected area has been prohibited from 12:00 noon on February 28, 2025, to 5:00 PM on March 1, 2025, for public safety.

The Chamoli Police Uttarakhand has also issued a statement confirming that all roads and highways are closed due to heavy rain and landslides near Nandprayag.

The IMD forecasts that the weather will remain unstable over the next few days, with rain and snowfall continuing in several districts—especially at altitudes above 3,200 meters. Travelers and residents have been advised to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks.