Manali: Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports(ABVIMAS), Manali here has kicked off a renewed search operation to locate Ashutosh Himta, a trekker from Theog, who went missing in an avalanche while ascending the daunting Mt. Friendship Peak, standing tall at 18,000 feet, last year.
The operation, spearheaded by Director Avinash Negi, comes after receiving a request letter from DDMA Kullu and extensive planning during the post-monsoon season.
A dedicated team of 12 seasoned mountain rescue experts has been constituted for this mission, equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate the treacherous terrain in the valley of Gods.
The team comprises mountaineers with exceptional track records, including mountaineering instructors and high-altitude specialists.
Last year's search efforts yielded no results, prompting Abvimas Manali to leave no stone unturned this time.
They have even enlisted the assistance of Indian Army rescuers armed with state-of-the-art equipment, thanks to a personal request from Director Abvimas.
ABVIMAS Director Avinash Negi expressed hope in their mission, stating, "Our primary goal is to locate the missing trekker. Once we find him, further actions will follow."
The team's members have demonstrated their capabilities in the past, rescuing over 200 stranded pilgrims and recovering four deceased individuals during the Shrikhand Yatra.
Abvimas Manali's dedication extends beyond this mission, as they have consistently worked to rescue and evacuate stranded tourists during recent flash floods, highlighting their commitment to the well-being of adventurers and travelers in the region.
The team embarked on their journey to the base camp on September 9, 2023, at 0900 hours, ready to tackle the challenging task ahead in their quest to bring Ashutosh Himta back.
