Reckong Peo, Himachal Pradesh
A major accident was averted during the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district after 16 pilgrims and 10 porters and guides became stranded amid sudden snowfall and deteriorating weather conditions.
On Saturday, heavy snowfall suddenly began near Ganesh Park in the high-altitude area, accompanied by strong icy winds. Due to the worsening weather, the group was unable to proceed further and became stranded on the route.
Recognising the seriousness of the situation, the pilgrims informed the district administration. Following the alert, a Quick Response Team (QRT) comprising police and Home Guard personnel was dispatched to the area. The rescue team launched an operation and safely evacuated all 26 people to a secure location at a lower altitude.
Weather Deteriorated Suddenly
According to the information available, the pilgrims from Rajasthan and Gujarat had undertaken the Kinnaur Kailash journey with the assistance of local porters and guides. As they approached the area near Ganesh Park, the weather suddenly changed and heavy snowfall began.
The snowfall and strong winds at the high altitude made the route extremely difficult. Continuing the journey under such conditions could have been dangerous. Timely communication with the administration helped prevent a potentially serious incident.
All 26 People Rescued Safely
After receiving the information, police and Home Guard personnel reached the area and began efforts to rescue the stranded pilgrims and guides. The rescue operation successfully brought all 26 people down to a safer location.
The district administration has appealed to people to exercise extreme caution in high-altitude areas and to closely monitor weather conditions before undertaking any journey.
Yatra Officially Closed
According to the district administration, the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra was officially closed on August 23. Despite the closure, reports have emerged that some local guides may allegedly be taking pilgrims on the route unofficially.
The administration has advised people to remain alert and avoid such attempts. Weather conditions in mountainous areas can change suddenly, and entering a closed route can prove life-threatening.
