Meanwhile, air rescue operation in Kedarnath that was halted for a brief period on Thursday due to bad weather has begun. The holy town which was the epicenter of the tragedy is a picture of gloom. There is destruction all over. Though the century old temple is intact, the shops and dharamshalas around it have been damaged. The entire town is covered in mud and slush.
Indian Air Force’s rescue team is carrying out sorties to evacuate all the pilgrims from kedarnath. According to reports, about 500 people have been rescued today by the air force.
Over 5,000 people are also stranded in Gaurikund- the base camp from where pilgrims begin the 14 kilometre trek to Kedarnath. Another 15,000 are stuck in Badrinath and its close by areas. The entire route to kedarnath has been severely damaged and would remain closed for at least a year.
About 5,500 jawans and officers of the army, 3,000 men of the Border Roads Organisation and 600 ITBP personnel are engaged in relief and rescue efforts. Thirteen teams of the National Disaster Response Force have also been pressed into action. The Air Force has deployed 18 helicopters and C130 aircraft.
So far, more than 10,000 people have been rescued and are being provided food, clothing and shelter. Many persons still remain stranded.
Photo by indianexpress.