BRO Executes High-Altitude Rescue Mission in Jammu & Kashmir
In a remarkable display of coordination and resilience, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) successfully rescued 60 people, including 40 soldiers from a Rashtriya Rifles unit, who were stranded in a snowbound area of Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district following heavy snowfall. The high-altitude rescue and road restoration operation was conducted under Project Sampark at the Chatergala Pass on the Bhaderwah–Chatergala axis, situated at an altitude of approximately 10,500 feet.
Timeline of the Rescue Operation
The operation commenced on January 24, just one day after continuous snowfall for nearly 40 hours had blocked the route, trapping the individuals in harsh conditions. According to an official spokesperson, personnel from the 118 Road Construction Company (RCC) under the 35 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) spearheaded the efforts. They cleared around 38 kilometers of road that was buried under five to six feet of snow, showcasing their expertise in handling extreme terrain.
Successful Evacuation and Restoration
By the evening of January 25, the route was reopened, enabling the safe evacuation of 20 stranded civilians and 40 personnel from the 4 Rashtriya Rifles. Importantly, their weapons and essential supplies were also recovered without incident. The rescue mission was fully completed by the early hours of January 26, with no casualties reported, highlighting the efficiency and safety of the operation.
This mission was carried out in close coordination with the Army, and it played a crucial role in restoring critical communication links in the region. Despite facing extreme weather conditions and difficult terrain, the BRO's efforts ensured that vital connectivity was maintained, which is essential for both military and civilian needs in such remote areas.
Additional Road Connectivity Restoration
In a related development, the BRO also restored road connectivity in the Kandi-Kotranka area of Rajouri district, where heavy snowfall had disrupted movement in the Pir Panjal region. Snow accumulation of up to three feet had cut off the Kandi-Kotranka subdivision from Rajouri town, affecting civilian and military movement, including access to medical emergency services.
Personnel from the 110 RCC under the 31 BRTF launched round-the-clock snow clearance operations, utilizing specialized equipment and dedicated manpower. Within 14 hours, they initially opened a single-lane road to allow controlled movement of vehicles, particularly for emergency services. The clearance and widening work continued diligently, and approximately 35 kilometers of road was fully restored within 24 hours, ensuring safer and smoother movement in the area.
Impact and Significance
These operations underscore the BRO's vital role in maintaining infrastructure and ensuring safety in India's challenging border regions. The successful rescues and road restorations not only prevented potential tragedies but also reinforced the resilience of India's defense and civil infrastructure in the face of natural adversities. Such efforts are critical for sustaining regional stability and supporting the livelihoods of local communities in Jammu and Kashmir.
