DEHRADUN: A search and rescue operation is currently in progress along Uttarakhand's Pindari Glacier trekking route to locate a trekker from Noida who went missing while returning from the trail in Bageshwar district, officials confirmed on Sunday.
Operation Launched by SDRF
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) initiated the operation after receiving a report from Kapkot police regarding the disappearance of Vishesh Chauhan on the night of May 29. According to officials, Chauhan had embarked on the Pindari Glacier trek accompanied by a local porter. During the return leg, he reportedly became separated from the porter and failed to reach the designated base point within the expected timeframe, prompting concern and leading authorities to seek SDRF assistance.
Search Efforts Underway
An SDRF team led by Head Constable Teeka Singh Karki, along with local police personnel, was immediately deployed to the area to begin search efforts. During the operation, rescuers descended approximately 60 to 70 metres using rope rescue equipment at a location identified by the guide as a potential point where Chauhan may have gone missing.
Although the trekker has not yet been located, the search team recovered his camera from the site, providing a significant lead in the investigation. Following this discovery, rescue personnel expanded the search across the banks of the Pinder River and nearby forested areas.
Weather Hampers Operations
The operation was temporarily suspended on Saturday due to heavy rainfall and poor weather conditions, which reduced visibility and posed risks to rescuers. Search efforts resumed on Sunday after weather conditions improved slightly. Officials stated that teams continue to comb the rugged terrain in an effort to trace the missing trekker.
(With PTI inputs)
