At least 10 workers have been rescued as 47 still remain trapped after an avalanche hit Uttarakhand's Badrinath and its surrounding areas on Friday.

The trapped workers were reportedly employed by a contractor working for the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

Following heavy snowfall, an avalanche occurred near Mana village, beyond Badrinath. Reports indicate that 47 workers are still trapped underneath the sno

According to initial reports, 57 workers were present at the site. So far, 10 have been rescued safely, while some managed to escape during the avalanche.

District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari said that the avalanche occurred near the BRO site between Mana village and Mana Pass where the workers were engaged in clearing snow from the road to facilitate army movement. "So far, no casualties have been reported," he said.

Rescue operations are underway with teams from the administration and BRO currently on the way to the site. The workers were engaged in road construction under a private contractor.

ITBP and Garhwal scouts are actively involved in the rescue efforts along with locals.

Confirming the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami prayed for the quick rescue of construction workers.

Taking to X, Dhami said: "Sad news was received about many workers being buried under an avalanche during the construction work being carried out by BRO near Mana village in Chamoli district. Relief and rescue operations are being carried out by ITBP, BRO and other rescue teams. I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all the labour brothers."

Although no statement has been issued on the rescue operation so far, sources have revealed that the situation remains tricky, considering the heavy snowfall received in the area for the past two days.

" Out of these workers, 10 workers have been rescued and sent to the army camp near Mana in critical condition," Uttarakhand Police Headquarters spokesperson IG Nilesh Anand Bharne said, as reported by news agency ANI.

Meanwhile, BRO Executive Engineer CR Meena said that three to four ambulances had been rushed to the spot. However, the rescue team is facing difficulties reaching the spot due to heavy snowfall, added Meena, as reported by ANI.

Source: India Today