PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / New Tehri
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) carried out a rescue operation at the Tehri Lake near the Dobra-Chathi bridge in Tehri district on Saturday evening. Around 25 to 30 tourists were safely rescued after a sudden storm hit the lake area and damaged floating hutments anchored near the bridge where they were staying.
According to officials, the incident happened at about 7:45 PM on May 2. Strong winds and high waves created panic in the area. The floating hutments anchored in the lake were affected and started drifting due to the storm.
After receiving information, the SDRF team stationed at Koti Colony reached the spot. The rescue team was led by sub-inspector Narendra Rana. They carried all necessary rescue equipment and reached the lake without delay. Despite darkness, strong winds, low visibility and dangerous water conditions, the team started rescue work at once.
Officials said that SDRF teams were already on alert because the meteorological department had issued warnings earlier. Due to this preparedness, the team responded quickly and stopped the situation from turning into a major tragedy.
The rescue team reached the floating hutments in difficult conditions and brought the trapped people out one by one. The frightened tourists were then shifted safely with the help of a Tourism department boat to Koti Colony. No injuries or casualties were reported in the incident.
SDRF has appealed to pilgrims, tourists and local residents to follow weather warnings and avoid visiting lakes, rivers and water bodies during bad weather. Officials said that awareness and caution are the best ways to prevent accidents.
