ITBP Heroics: 413 Pilgrims Rescued After Flash Flood Devastates Kinner Kailash Route

In a heroic operation, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), alongside the National Disaster Response Force, successfully rescued 413 pilgrims trapped due to a flash flood that swept away parts of the Kinner Kailash Yatra route in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district. The 17th Battalion of ITBP, under the leadership of a gazetted officer, skillfully utilized rope-based traverse techniques to escort the stranded pilgrims to safety after portions of the trekking path near Tangling were washed away.

Authorities promptly re-mobilized ITBP and NDRF teams for ongoing search and rescue efforts following alerts from the Kinnaur district administration about other stranded individuals in the region. The operation was bolstered by close coordination between the ITBP, district authorities, and other relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all remaining pilgrims. Meanwhile, a weather alert issued by the Indian Meteorological Department forecasts additional rain, particularly in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur, Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Mandi districts.

The adverse weather impacts extend beyond the rescue efforts, causing significant disruption in Shimla where schools have been closed due to heavy rainfall. The State Disaster Management Authority's report has highlighted the monsoon's toll on the region with 194 casualties and an economic setback exceeding Rs 1,85,251.98 lakh from June 20 to August 5, prompting urgent measures to mitigate further impacts.

(With inputs from agencies.)