The Indian Army has ramped up search and rescue operations at the avalanche site in Mana, Uttarakhand, with senior officials personally overseeing the efforts. Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Central Command, and Lt Gen DG Misra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Uttar Bharat Area, visited the site to assess, review, and coordinate ongoing rescue efforts.
Specialized reconnaissance radars, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), quadcopters, and avalanche rescue dogs have been deployed to locate survivors trapped under the snow. Helicopters are operating continuously to transport essential equipment, and resources, and evacuate the injured to safety.
Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta assured that the Indian Army, in collaboration with various agencies, is fully equipped with the necessary resources to conduct rapid rescue operations. "Our forces are committed to ensuring the swift execution of search and rescue efforts, and all available resources have been mobilized to bring those affected to safety," he stated.
The avalanche struck in the high-altitude region of Mana, a strategically significant location near the Indo-Tibetan border. The challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions have posed significant obstacles, but the Army’s specialized teams are working tirelessly to overcome them.
As rescue operations continue, authorities have urged residents and tourists to exercise caution and avoid venturing into avalanche-prone zones. Further updates on the situation are expected as the operation progresses.
Meanwhile, medical teams have been stationed at key locations to provide immediate aid to survivors. The Indian Army has set up temporary relief centers to accommodate displaced individuals and provide them with food, warmth, and medical assistance. Efforts are also underway to assess the structural stability of key access routes in the region, ensuring the safe passage of both rescuers and evacuees.
In addition to military assets, local authorities, disaster response teams, and volunteers are contributing to the efforts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) have joined hands with the Army in the mission, deploying additional manpower and resources.
Families of those missing have gathered near the site, anxiously awaiting updates. Authorities have assured them that every effort is being made to locate and rescue those still unaccounted for. The Indian Army has also deployed psychological support teams to help affected families cope with the distressing situation.
Officials have stated that the next phase of operations will focus on deep scanning of the affected areas using advanced ground-penetrating radars and thermal imaging technology to ensure no survivor is left behind. Specialized teams are also monitoring weather conditions to anticipate further risks and modify rescue strategies accordingly.
As the Indian Army and allied agencies push forward with their relentless efforts, the nation watches closely, hoping for positive outcomes in the face of adversity. Further reports will follow as more information becomes available.