A tragic incident occurred in the Tungnath-Chandrashila area of Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, resulting in the death of a young man and severe injuries to another. The victims were reportedly struck by lightning during a storm characterised by strong winds and heavy rainfall. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) launched a rescue operation following the distress call about stranded trekkers in the region on May 29, 2026.

Rescue Operation Details

The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) in Dehradun alerted the SDRF regarding trekkers trapped in adverse weather conditions. Initial reports indicated that several individuals had been caught in a lightning strike. In response, a team from Ratuda Post, led by Sub-Inspector Santosh Parihar and overseen by Inspector Aniruddh Bhandari, was dispatched with essential rescue resources.

During the initial phases of the operation, another agency managed to evacuate a critically injured individual, who was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital in an 108 ambulance. Remarkably, two other trekkers were found safe at the scene, significantly aiding the operation’s morale.

However, it was confirmed that 19-year-old Abhinav Vajpayee, son of Sanjeet Kumar and a resident of Lucknow, tragically succumbed to his injuries on-site after being struck by lightning. This incident highlights the dangers faced by trekkers in unpredictable weather conditions.

Challenging Conditions Faced by Rescuers

The SDRF team undertook a challenging eight to ten-kilometre trek from Chopta to the incident site, facing severe weather and difficult mountainous terrain. Rescuers demonstrated commendable bravery and determination despite the hazardous conditions. They managed to reach the event site around 11:00 PM, where they recovered Vajpayee’s body and prepared for the difficult descent back to Chopta.

The challenges were compounded by the treacherous terrain and ongoing inclement weather. The team’s efforts were crucial in bringing the deceased safely down, ensuring that he could be given due respect and facilitated in his final journey.

In a related context, on May 19, helicopter services to Kedarnath Temple had been repeatedly interrupted due to adverse weather. Authorities took precautionary measures for passenger safety, leading to concerns over flight operations in the region. Pilgrims were advised to stay updated on the status of these services, which were temporarily halted following sudden weather changes in the Kedarnath valley.

Warnings and Safety Measures

Officials have underscored the importance of remaining vigilant and adhering to safety protocols while trekking in the region, especially during monsoons when weather conditions can shift rapidly. Pilgrims and adventurers are encouraged to stay informed about weather forecasts and to follow guidance from local authorities to minimise risks during their expeditions.

As this incident underlines the inherent risks associated with trekking in high-altitude areas, it serves as a reminder for adventurers to prepare adequately and remain cautious. Local administrations are continuously monitoring the weather and are committed to ensuring the safety of all trekkers in the Uttarakhand region.

The community mourns the loss of young Abhinav Vajpayee, while the SDRF is acknowledged for their dedication and swift action in a distressing situation. This event draws attention to both the beauty and dangers of the natural landscape that adventurers often seek to explore.

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