10K Manimahesh pilgrims evacuated; over 4,000 still stranded in Bharmour

Emergency response teams of the Chamba district administration have evacuated more than 10,000 Manimahesh pilgrims stranded in the Bharmour region after flash floods and landslides damaged several stretches of National Highway 154-A. Nearly 4,000 devotees, however, are still in Bharmour.

Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal said the administration has ensured safety, food, shelter and secure transportation for the pilgrims on a priority basis.

Owing to incessant heavy rainfall between August 23 and 25, nearly 15,000 pilgrims were marooned in different parts of Bharmour. A major rescue operation was launched from August 27 to 29. “On August 27, all pilgrims trekking on upper routes were brought down to Bharmour, after which operations continued to facilitate their safe return to destinations,” Repaswal said.

He added that all pilgrims were shifted from Bharmour to Chamba and further transported to their homes with the help of HRTC buses and assistance from local residents. He also expressed gratitude to langar committees and villagers who extended support during the crisis.

So far, over 10,000 devotees have been sent safely, while around 3,000 to 4,000 pilgrims remain in Bharmour. “Adequate food and accommodation have been arranged for them and they will also be transported at the earliest,” the DC assured.

Highlighting the scale of damage, Repaswal said 15-20 major landslides between Bagga and Durgethi are yet to be cleared, which will take considerable time.

He praised the relentless efforts of the Public Works Department, which is working round the clock to restore connectivity and appreciated the Jal Shakti and HPSEB teams for ensuring uninterrupted water and power supply despite adverse conditions.

The DC also lauded the police and NDRF teams, who managed to evacuate nearly 9,500 pilgrims in a single day from a completely damaged route. He further thanked the administrations of Pathankot and Doda for extending support in managing the situation.