SDRF searches for eight missing trekkers in Uttarakhand's Kedartal
Rescue teams are using helicopters for aerial reconnaissance as heavy snowfall and avalanches hamper efforts in Uttarkashi district.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) began searching for seven trekkers and one guide on Sunday after they went missing near Kedartal in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, according to The Hindu and The New Indian Express.
The group, which includes trekkers from West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, started their trek from Gangotri on October 27. They were expected to return on October 29, but adverse weather and snowfall blocked their route.
Mayank Garg, deputy director of the Gangotri National Park, said an avalanche blocked the path beyond Bhoj Kharak, leaving eight people cut off. While three porters and a cook were found safe near Kachchi Dhang, seven trekkers and one guide remain unaccounted for.
SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi said a specialised mountaineering team was deployed to find the missing individuals. Due to difficult terrain and deep snow, officials decided to use a helicopter for aerial reconnaissance.
Head constable Ravi Chauhan and constable Deepak Pant reached Harsil by helicopter on Sunday to conduct two surveys of the Kedartal area. Officials stated that no clear signs of the trekkers or their tents were seen during these flights.
An additional SDRF team equipped with mountaineering gear has been sent from the battalion headquarters. This team will assist the operation once weather and terrain conditions improve.