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Key Points

The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a major evacuation operation for devotees stranded during the Manimahesh Yatra. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is directly supervising the rescue efforts that include both ground and air operations. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi has been personally overseeing the mission on foot in challenging terrain. This comes as the state reports 343 monsoon-related deaths since June, highlighting the severe weather conditions affecting the region.

Key Points: Himachal CM Sukhu Evacuates 500 Stranded Manimahesh Yatra Devotees

  • Chamba administration transports 500 devotees by road with security escorts
  • 35 ailing pilgrims airlifted via helicopter completing seven sorties
  • Revenue Minister Negi personally supervises rescue operation on foot
  • Free food, water and transport arranged for all stranded pilgrims
2 min read

Himachal Pradesh government launches operation to evacuate devotees stranded during Manimahesh Yatra

Himachal Pradesh launches major rescue operation with airlifts and ground support to evacuate 500 devotees stranded during Manimahesh Yatra amid monsoon devastation.

"The monsoon this year has caused unprecedented disruption to life and property, with thousands affected directly and indirectly - SDMA Spokesperson"

Shimla, September 4

A major operation has been launched by the Chamba district administration to safely evacuate devotees stranded during the Manimahesh Yatra, under the direct supervision and directions of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, stated a release.

The Chamba administration on Thursday began transporting nearly 500 devotees from Bharmour to Chamba by vehicles. At certain stretches, where roads have been damaged, the district administration has deployed adequate security personnel to assist them and ensure their safety. In addition, free food, drinking water, transport and other essential facilities have been arranged en route to prevent any inconvenience to them.

A Spokesperson of the state government informed today that, despite adverse weather conditions, 35 ailing and elderly devotees were safely airlifted to Chamba by a small helicopter, which completed seven sorties during the day. The Air Force's MI-17 helicopter has also been stationed at Pathankot to meet any exigency.

He further stated that Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi has been personally supervising the rescue operation on the ground for the past several days. Travelling on foot, he reached Bharmour from Chamba and has been tirelessly engaged in ensuring the safety of the devotees.

He said that the state government was committed to safeguard the lives and property of its people as well as the visiting pilgrims and tourists from several parts.

Meanwhile, the state has suffered the loss of 343 lives since the onset of this year's monsoon on June 20, with 183 fatalities from rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, and lightning strikes, and 160 deaths in road accidents, as per the State Disaster Management Authority. (SDMA)

The SDMA's cumulative report up to September 3 paints a grim picture of widespread human and economic loss across all 12 districts. "The monsoon this year has caused unprecedented disruption to life and property, with thousands affected directly and indirectly," an SDMA spokesperson said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The monsoon casualties are heartbreaking 💔 343 lives lost is too many. While rescue operations are commendable, we need better infrastructure and early warning systems in hilly areas to prevent such tragedies.
A
Aman W
Respect to Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi for personally supervising and traveling on foot! This is how leaders should work - on the ground with the people. 👏
S
Sarah B
The Air Force MI-17 stationed at Pathankot shows excellent coordination between state and central forces. This is how disaster management should work - seamless cooperation between different agencies.
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Vikram M
While I appreciate the rescue efforts, why were pilgrims allowed to proceed when weather warnings were there? We need better planning for religious events during monsoon season. Safety should come first, always.
N
Nisha Z
The free food and water arrangements show the government's compassion. In difficult times, these small gestures mean a lot to stranded devotees. Hope everyone reaches home safely! 🕉️

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