INDIAN ARMY MOUNTS RESCUE MISSION AT PIPALKOTI
Friday, 14 Aug 2026: An Indian Army Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) column was swiftly mobilised from Joshimath
News Desk
Friday, 14 Aug 2026: An Indian Army Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) column was swiftly mobilised from Joshimath to Pipalkoti to reinforce the ongoing search-and-rescue operation after 28 workers were reported trapped inside a tunnel.
The Army rescue team, comprising officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and soldiers, is supported by specialised K9 teams and a dedicated medical detachment to augment the ongoing rescue efforts.
On arrival at the site, the Army team conducted a detailed reconnaissance and coordinated closely with the HCC engineers, THDC and other agencies to assess the situation and determine the operational requirements. A final reconnaissance was also undertaken before the rescue teams entered the tunnel.
Using specialised rescue equipment, the Army team advanced approximately 1.5 kilometres inside the tunnel, where they encountered a flooded stretch extending nearly 300 metres, with water reaching chest height. Despite the hazardous conditions, Army personnel entered the flooded section and assisted in evacuating the trapped workers.
The Army HADR column provided critical support to the ongoing multi-agency rescue operation and played a key role in the effort to recover four workers from the tunnel.
As per the latest inputs from the District Disaster Management Officer and Project Manager, THDC, 28 persons were affected in the incident. Six persons managed to escape on their own, while 22 were trapped inside the tunnel. Fourteen workers were rescued in an injured condition, of whom two subsequently succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Five deceased persons have been recovered, while three persons still remain missing.
The Pipalkoti rescue operation continues, with multi-agency teams working relentlessly to locate the three missing persons.
The Indian Army remains committed to supporting the civil administration and all agencies engaged in the rescue operation, braving challenging conditions and working against the odds to save lives and bring the missing persons home.
