NEW DELHI, Sept. 25, 2018 (BSS/XINHUA) – At least 45 people who had gone
for trekking in upper reaches of northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh
were reported missing, local media said Tuesday.
The trekkers included 35 students from India’s Indian Institute of
Technology (IIT) Roorkee.
The group had gone for trekking in mountainous Lahaul-Spiti district. They
were reported to be missing after heavy snowfall hit the upper reaches.
“The group had gone for a trek to the Hampta pass and were supposed to
return to the popular tourist hub of Manali. However, they have been unable
to contact the group so far,” a local news agency quoted Rajvir Singh, father
of one of the students, as saying.
A local government official from Shimla told Xinhua that they have launched
operations to rescue the people stranded in upper reaches.
“We are hopeful our rescue teams which include Indian air force men will
ensure safety of everyone,” the official said.
Himachal Pradesh witnessed heavy rainfall and snow in the plains and upper
reaches respectively.
Officials said they have pressed in snow-clearing machines to clear the
roads for traffic in snowbound areas.
Heavy downpour has pushed up water level in the rivers and streams.
Authorities have advised people to avoid venturing near rivers and streams.
It has also issued an alert in the affected areas asking tourism operators to
stop adventurous sport activities, including paragliding until further
orders.
Reports said over 3,000 people have been stranded in Lahaul-Spiti and
Chamba in the wake of incessant rain and snowfall.