Workers trapped in metal containers in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand for 36 hours survived. CNN reported that they were rescued by the Indian army.
Disaster details
The avalanche occurred on February 28 near the village of Mana, located at an altitude of 10,500 feet (3,200 meters) above sea level. During the rescue efforts, it was revealed that 46 workers survived, while 8 people died. The Indian army conducted a large-scale rescue operation in the area.
Containers - a chance to survive
The construction workers were mostly migrants from remote areas who participated in the construction of the highway. Workers who normally lived in tents spent time in metal containers due to adverse weather conditions, which was an important factor in saving their lives.
Containers also facilitated rescue operations. Because it is more difficult to find bodies buried under snow than to find a large container.
Global climate change and dangers in the Himalayas
Avalanches in the Himalayas are common, especially in winter. However, in recent years, such incidents have increased due to global climate change. According to analyses, since 2010, glaciers have melted 65 percent faster, which is causing ice sheets to erode and floods to form. This situation puts the lives of millions of people in mountainous regions at risk.
Disaster statistics
Avalanches have caused serious disasters in this part of India on several occasions. In 2021, more than 200 people died when part of the Uttarakhand glacier collapsed. Experts say that erosion of glacier slopes and frequent floods are further increasing the risk of avalanches.
The incident has highlighted the need to review construction and safety measures in India and other mountainous regions. Both the local population and migrant workers are facing the direct impact of climate change. The government is expected to take additional safety measures to prevent such incidents.
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