35 students among 45 trekkers missing in Northern Indian state after heavy snowfall

NEW DELHI: At least 45 people who had gone trekking in the upper reaches of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh have been reported missing.

Thetrekkersincluded35students from India’s Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee.

The group had gone trekking in the mountainous Lahaul-Spiti district when they were reported missing after heavy snowfall hit the upper reaches, reported Xinhua news agency yesterday.

“The group had gone for a trek to the Hampta pass and were supposed to return to the popular tourist hub of Manali,” a local news agency quoted Rajvir Singh, father of one of the students, as saying.

A local government official from Shimla told Xinhua that search and rescue (SAR) operations were launched in the upper reaches.

“We are hopeful our rescue teams which include the Indian Air Force personnel will ensure everyone’s safety ,” the official said.

Himachal Pradesh has witnessed heavy rainfall and snow in the plains and upper reaches, respectively.

Officials said they pressed in snow-clearing machines to clear the roads for traffic in snowbound areas. Heavy downpour has pushed up water level in the rivers and streams as the authorities advised the people to avoid venturing near rivers and streams.

The authorities have also issued an alert in the affected areas, urging tourism operators to stop adventurous sport activities, including paragliding until further notice. — Bernama