ITBP Rescues 413 Pilgrims Amid Himachal Flood Crisis

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) executed a daring rescue operation, saving 413 pilgrims caught in the aftermath of a flash flood on the Kinner Kailash Yatra route in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district. The flash flood had obliterated a portion of the trekking path near the Tangling area, leaving travelers stranded.

Led by one gazetted officer, the rescue team from ITBP's 17th Battalion employed a rope-based traverse crossing technique to evacuate the pilgrims safely. This operation, supported by a 14-member team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), showcased a coordinated response to the crisis. Alerted by the Kinnaur district administration, ITBP and NDRF teams continued to mobilize, conducting comprehensive search and rescue operations for any remaining trapped individuals.

The situation remains precarious as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts continued inclement weather, predicting light to intense rainfall across Himachal Pradesh. The State Disaster Management Authority reports a staggering toll on the region with substantial human and economic losses since the onset of the monsoon season.

(With inputs from agencies.)