IAF airlifts 524 stranded pilgrims from Bharmour

The Indian Air Force (IAF) airlifted 524 pilgrims stranded in Bharmour in its two Chinook helicopters on Friday as part of the Himachal Pradesh Government’s ongoing rescue efforts during the Manimahesh Yatra.

The two heavy-lift transport helicopters conducted 12 sorties from Bharmour to the Kariyan helipad and transported the stranded pilgrims, mostly elderly, children and those unable to walk long distances due to some illness or other reasons. Besides, the bodies of three pilgrims, who died during the yatra, were flown to Chamba.

Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal said that pilgrims arriving at Kariyan were provided free onward transport in Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses to Pathankot and Kangra. On Friday alone, around 1,000 pilgrims were moved in 20 buses.

Since August 29, the government has facilitated free transportation for nearly 8,000 devotees through 185 HRTC buses, ensuring safe return to their destinations, he said.

“Free transport service will continue until all stranded pilgrims reach their homes safely,” Repaswal said, highlighting the administration’s focus on seamless evacuation and relief operations.

Notably, about 120 pilgrims were airlifted from Bharmour in the helicopters deployed by state government with support of private aviation companies on Wednesday and Thursday.

The government’s measures followed unprecedented disruptions during this year’s pilgrimage, which was interrupted by heavy rainfall and natural calamities. Pilgrims were stranded at various locations along the route and district authorities, aided by local volunteers, NGOs and the Air Force, worked tirelessly to rescue them via footpaths, roads and helicopters.

Chamba district, particularly the Bharmour region, experienced devastating rainfall on August 23-26, which severely damaged roads, critical infrastructure and communication networks, complicating rescue operations. The government has since focused on clearing roadblocks, restoring connectivity and providing essential services to ensure pilgrims and local communities remain supported during recovery.