1,166 pilgrims rescued from Bharmour in 24 hours

In a massive rescue operation launched by the Himachal Pradesh government, 1,166 stranded Manimahesh Yatra pilgrims have been successfully evacuated from the Bharmour area to Chamba within the last 24 hours.

The devotees were subsequently sent to their respective destinations free of cost in Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses.

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A government spokesperson on Friday said that 524 passengers were airlifted from Bharmour in 12 sorties of an Air Force Chinook helicopter, while three mortal remains were also shifted to Chamba on Thursday.

A day earlier, 35 pilgrims had been evacuated through seven helicopter sorties, also without charge, he said, adding that on the same day the Chamba district administration transported 607 pilgrims by road from Bharmour to Chamba.

At damaged stretches, security forces ensured their safe passage on foot, while free food, drinking water, and other essentials were arranged en route, he said.

From Chamba, the pilgrims were later moved to Nurpur and Pathankot in 13 HRTC buses at no cost, he added.

The chief minister continuously monitored the rescue operations, while Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi coordinated efforts on the ground at Bharmour, said the spokesperson.

Speaking to reporters in Kullu on Friday, he praised Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi for his leadership and lauded the tireless efforts of the NDRF, SDRF, Police, Home Guards, Chamba district administration, departmental officers and officials, NGOs, and volunteers engaged in the relief and rescue mission.