SHIMLA/SANGLA: In a joint operation, the Indian Army and ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) have rescued 118 stranded tourists from the scenic Sangla valley in Kinnaur today.
The rescue mission, launched on June 13, involved deploying a team of soldiers and ITBP personnel via helicopters to provide crucial support to the local administration and police.
As many 118 tourists have been safely rescued in six separate sorties, as confirmed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sinh Sukhu.
However, the rescue operation is far from over, as there are still more tourists awaiting evacuation. Fortunately, the Sangla valley boasts a heliport, which facilitates the air lifting process, enabling the teams to reach those in need.
The stranded tourists found themselves in a precarious situation due to the flash floods caused by the Surging Satluj and Baspa rivers.
The main national highways connecting Sangla to Karcham, as well as Recong Peo to Karcham and Rampur, have been severely damaged at various points.
This has further complicated the rescue efforts, leaving the tourists trapped and cut off from major transportation routes.
To address this critical situation, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Border Roads Organization (BRO) have deployed machinery and equipment to expedite the restoration of the highways.
Similarly, Mani Chandigarh-Kalka Shimla and Shimla-Rampur- Kaurik and Kaza-Samdoh highways are yet to be restored.
The breaches on the Shimla-Kalka Fourlane has hit the supplies of the daily essentials like milk bread and butters and other commodities for the last four days.
The magnitude of damage Himachal has suffered so far remains un unfathomable. But support of the local administration and law enforcement and Indian Arm and ITBP and IAF have brought hope and relief to the stranded tourists and locals.
As the rescue missions continue, the joint teams remain committed to rescuing and providing assistance to all those in need, ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of adversity.
