February 28, 2025: A massive avalanche struck Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district near Mana village on Friday, leaving at least 57 people trapped under snow. The road leading to the affected area has been blocked, delaying rescue and relief operations.

According to officials, the trapped individuals are construction workers engaged in road-building activities in the region. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Indian Army are leading rescue operations, while teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are attempting to reach the site despite challenging conditions.

Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed the number of those trapped, while police spokesperson Nilesh Bharne reported that the avalanche struck near a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp.

"A massive avalanche has occurred near the BRO camp in the border area of Mana, trapping 57 workers involved in road construction. So far, 10 workers have been rescued and sent to the nearby army camp for treatment, though they are in critical condition," Bharne told the media.

Colonel Ankur Mahajan, commander of the BRO, said authorities received reports of the avalanche around 8 AM.

"We are still assessing the exact number of people affected. Some of those rescued have sustained injuries, but the severity remains unclear. They are currently receiving medical attention," he stated.

Rescue efforts are being hampered by poor connectivity and blocked roads. "The affected area is inaccessible, with no mobile or radio connectivity. The road before Hanumanchatti is blocked, and teams are working to clear it," Mahajan added.

SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi confirmed that a team has been dispatched to assist in the rescue operation. Efforts are ongoing to reach the trapped workers as authorities race against time in the challenging mountainous terrain.

More updates are expected as the situation develops.