4 trekkers dead in Uttarkashi; rescue teams race against time to rescue 13 others

After consulting with the Uttarkashi and Tehri Garhwal police departments, as well as officials from the Nehru Mountaineering Institute and ITBP, the District Magistrate announced that a joint team of skilled rescuers would be formed. This team, including police, SDRF personnel, and local guides familiar with the trek route, will leave for the site early Wednesday.

The Himalayan View Trekking Agency reported that on May 29, a 22-member team, comprising 18 members from Karnataka, one from Maharashtra, and three local guides, embarked on the Malla-Silla-Kushkalyan-Sahastratal trek, expected to return by June 7. However, the team lost its way due to bad weather while approaching Sahastra Tal from the last camp on Monday. The agency later confirmed the deaths of four members and requested immediate rescue for the 13 trapped trekkers.

The District Magistrate has written to the Joint Secretary of the Central Defense Department for air rescue and the State SDRF Commandant for ground rescue assistance. He emphasised the need for quick action due to the high altitude of Sahastra Tal (about 4,100-4,400 meters) and its location on the border of Uttarkashi and Tehri districts. High Himalayan Rescue Teams from Uttarkashi and Ghansali are essential for the immediate rescue operation.

Additionally, the Tracking Association has arranged for local villagers from Silla to assist at the site, and a request has been made for the Police and Forest departments from Tehri district to join the rescue efforts.