SDRF rescues injured trekkers stranded due to severe weather in northern India

June 5, 2024

by Shravya

In a challenging rescue operation, the SDRF successfully saved trekkers who were injured and stranded in northern India’s Uttarakhand amid harsh weather conditions.

The incident took place on the Sahastra Tal trek route in Garhwal Region on June 5.

Visuals showed a helicopter, equipped with all necessary supplies, was ready to assist. The scene was intense as the helicopter carefully navigated the rugged terrain, lowering rescue personnel to the injured trekkers stranded on the Sahastra Tal trek.

According to reports, a trekking group consisting of 22 members, including 18 from Karnataka, one from Maharashtra, and three local guides, set off on the Sahastra Tal trek from Malla-Silla-Kushkalyan on May 29, 2024. The expedition, organized by the Himalayan View Tracking Agency, was scheduled to return by June 7. However, the team encountered severe weather conditions, causing them to lose their way.

On receiving information about the incident, including the tragic death of four trekkers, the SDRF promptly initiated rescue operations. Acting under the instructions of SDRF Commander Shri Manikant Mishra, two high-altitude rescue teams were deployed early on June 5, 2024. A three-member team was dispatched via helicopter from Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun, while another team was kept on standby with essential equipment.

Additionally, a six-member team from Uttarkashi district headed to the scene. Under the supervision of Shri Manikant Mishra at Sahastradhara Helipad, a four-member third rescue team was also mobilized to aid in the operations.

So far, the SDRF teams have successfully rescued six trekkers and transported them safely to Natin village in Bhatwari Tehsil, Uttarkashi. Another four trekkers have been rescued and brought to Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun.

Rescue efforts continue as the SDRF strives to locate and save the remaining trekkers stranded on the hazardous Sahastratal trek route.