On October 27, a group of twelve individuals embarked on the Kedartal trek in Uttarakhand, intending to return by October 29. However, an avalanche has left eight members of the group unaccounted for. While four trekkers have successfully made their way back, the rescue efforts have now extended into their third day with no updates regarding the missing individuals.

The party consisted of seven trekkers, a guide, a cook, and three porters, all of whom had received the necessary permissions from the Forest Department before commencing their journey from Gangotri. Adverse weather conditions, including glacier movement and snowfall, reportedly obstructed their route, hindering their timely return.

On October 30, the trekkers managed to establish contact with their trekking agency, indicating they were safe in the vicinity of Kachhi Dhang. They requested assistance, signalling that they were in need of help due to the unfolding situation.

Current Status of Rescue Operations

As of November 1, the search and rescue operations have been intensified. Initial efforts included an aerial survey of the Kedartal area, conducted by the relevant authorities, but no trace of the missing trekkers or their equipment was discovered. The search teams faced challenges due to ongoing adverse weather conditions.

Two personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Head Constable Ravi Chauhan and Constable Deepak Pant, were deployed by helicopter to Harsil on November 1. They undertook two aerial reconnaissance flights over the Kedartal region, but officials reported that no definitive signs of the missing trekkers or their tents were observed during these missions.

Rescue operations were temporarily halted due to the persistent poor weather, which has complicated the search efforts. However, specialised teams from both the SDRF and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) resumed ground searches today. Helicopter operations have also been initiated to aid in locating the missing individuals.

Profiles of the Missing Trekkers

The group of missing trekkers includes individuals from West Bengal, with ages ranging from 23 to 40. Notably, 30-year-old Tapas Bauri, 23-year-old Ratna Ghosh, 39-year-old Manoj Khovas, 40-year-old Ritu Mandal, and 30-year-old Uday Ghosh are among those unaccounted for. Additionally, Vartika Verma, aged 28, from Uttar Pradesh, and Siddharth Rana, a 25-year-old guide from Uttarkashi, are also missing.

Reports indicate that one of the stranded trekkers has sustained a head injury, adding urgency to the ongoing rescue efforts. The authorities are prioritising the safety and recovery of all individuals involved in this incident.

As the search continues, the families of the missing trekkers await updates with concern. The local administration, along with rescue teams, remains committed to locating the individuals and ensuring their safe return.

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