A devastating avalanche hit Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on Friday, leaving 57 workers trapped under heavy snow. The affected area, near Mana village, remains inaccessible as rescue teams struggle against blocked roads and harsh conditions.

The avalanche struck near a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp, where workers were engaged in a road construction project. Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed the number of those trapped, while rescue teams from ITBP, the army, SDRF, and NDRF are making efforts to reach the site.

According to police spokesperson Nilesh Bharne, ten workers have been rescued and taken to an army camp in critical condition. BRO Commander Colonel Ankur Mahajan stated that the exact number of trapped individuals remains uncertain, and the full extent of injuries is yet to be determined.

Communication in the affected region is severely hampered, with no mobile or radio connectivity. The road leading to Hanumanchatti is blocked, further complicating rescue efforts. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi confirmed that teams from Joshimath, Gauchar, and Dehradun have been placed on standby, with helicopters ready for deployment if necessary.

Reacting to the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his concern and assured that all possible efforts are being made to rescue the trapped workers. “I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all the workers,” he said.