two-stranded-labourers-rescued-near-atal-tunnel

Manali saw a timely rescue operation on Tuesday after two men were found stranded in deep snow near the first snow gallery close to Dhundi on the Manali–Atal Tunnel road. They had been stuck there since Friday morning after fresh snowfall made the stretch beyond Solang Nala inaccessible.

 

Manali DSP KD Sharma said the rescued men were labourers who had unknowingly crossed Solang Nala even though the road was being officially closed because of bad weather. Heavy snowfall in the higher reaches blocked their return route, which left them stranded near Dhundi, where snow accumulation was around 4.5 feet.

 

The Manali DSP stated that the two men showed strong resilience while surviving in the harsh conditions. They had blankets and some food with them, which helped them endure the freezing temperatures. They also lit firewood at intervals to keep warm. “Their presence of mind and basic preparation played a key role in keeping them safe until help arrived,” he said.

 

The rescue operation was launched on Tuesday after police received a phone call reporting that two persons were stuck in snow near the first snow gallery at Dhundi. Acting promptly on the information, police personnel deployed for Atal Tunnel security rushed to the spot. Despite difficult conditions and heavy snow, the team rescued both men and safely brought them back towards Manali.

 

The rescued labourers have been identified as Rameshwar, 28, a resident of Jharkhand, and Deepak, 19, from Uttar Pradesh. Both were found to be safe and in stable condition after the rescue.

 

Police said the alert was raised after a resident of Lahaul spotted the stranded men and informed the authorities, underlining the importance of local vigilance during extreme weather conditions.

 

The police have once again urged tourists, labourers, and local residents to strictly follow advisories and avoid travelling beyond permitted points during snowfall. Authorities reiterated that roads beyond Solang Nala remain closed during such weather to prevent accidents and life-threatening situations.

 

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