If the weather remains normal and makeshift arrangements are made, then the Amarnath yatra can be resumed on Saturday, said ITBP PRO.
New Delhi: At least 10 persons died and several others were injured in a cloudburst incident near the base camp of the cave temple of Amarnath in south Kashmir on Friday. Several people are also said to be missing.
Teams of the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) have been pressed into service. NDRF DG Atul Karwal said, “One NDRF team is always deployed near Amarnath temple which immediately engaged in rescue works. One more team has been deployed and another is on its way. As many as 10 casualties have been reported so far and three have been rescued alive.”
He added, “The cloudburst was reported around 5.30 pm. High momentum water flow affected many tents. Our crew (NDRF) is engaged in rescue work. Two out of our three teams have been engaged. Jammu & Kashmir Police, Indian Army and ITBP are engaged in rescue operations. The initial momentum is now decreasing, we are prepared for every situation.”
ITBP PRO Vivek Kumar Pandey said, “The situation is now under control although the rains are still on. Looking at the hazard level, the Amarnath Yatra has been halted temporarily as the area is flooded. If the weather remains normal and makeshift arrangements are made, then the yatra can be resumed on Saturday.”
He added, “We rescued people during the daylight while necessary food and lighting arrangements are being made at the site. If needed, rescue operations will be continued at the night as well.”
Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Anguished by the cloud burst near Shree Amarnath cave. Condolences to the bereaved families. Spoke to @manojsinha_ Ji and took stock of the situation. Rescue and relief operations are underway. All possible assistance is being provided to the affected.”
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted and said, “I have spoken to LG Shri @manojsinha_ ji and inquired about the situation. NDRF, CRPF, BSF and local administration are engaged in the rescue work. Saving people’s lives is our priority. I wish all the devotees well.”