LEH – In a daring rescue operation launched on Friday evening, police, along with the UTDRF rescue team of Ladakh Police, the Army, and GREEF rescue teams, successfully evacuated hundreds of stranded passengers from the treacherous Changla Axis. The operation was prompted by the significant influx of tourists and local passengers who found themselves in need of assistance due to the adverse weather conditions.
The rescue mission, carried out under extreme weather conditions, was executed with great precision and resulted in the safe evacuation of all passengers, including women and children, to Leh, according to officials. Thanks to the collective efforts of the rescue teams involved, no untoward incidents occurred during the operation.
Continuous intermittent snowfall over the past two days had rendered the road conditions on the Changla Axis icy and slippery, leading to the immobilization of several vehicles, including taxis and private cars, particularly those belonging to tourists. Sensing the urgency caused by the inclement weather, the police team from Kharu and Tangste police posts promptly responded and rushed to Changla Top.
The primary objective of the police team was to rescue and evacuate the stranded passengers, with a special focus on women, children, and tourists. Those with self-driven cars were transferred to police vehicles and local taxis, which transported them to safer areas. Private vehicles were safely driven to secure locations with the assistance of local drivers.
During the operation, priority was given to tourists and children who were experiencing medical complications, ensuring their timely evacuation towards Leh, where they could receive appropriate medical attention. Ladakh Police took this opportunity to urge both tourists and the general public to adhere to weather advisories and plan their journeys accordingly, in order to ensure safer travel experiences.
The successful rescue operation serves as a testament to the professionalism and dedication of the police, Army, and GREEF rescue teams, who braved challenging conditions to ensure the safety of the stranded passengers. It also highlights the importance of preparedness and caution when traveling in regions prone to extreme weather.
As the weather conditions gradually improve, authorities are working to restore normalcy on the Changla Axis, ensuring the road is safe for travel once again. The timely response and successful rescue operation are a reassuring reminder of the commitment of the rescue teams and the authorities to safeguard the well-being of the people.
The incident serves as a reminder for all travelers to remain vigilant and to prioritize their safety, especially during adverse weather conditions. By heeding weather advisories and making informed decisions, individuals can help prevent such situations and ensure their own well-being while enjoying the natural beauty of Leh and its surrounding areas.
As the region recovers from the heavy snowfall, it is expected that tourism and travel will resume gradually, with the assurance of adequate safety measures in place. The authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary steps to avoid any future disruptions caused by extreme weather conditions.
In the face of adversity, the successful rescue operation stands as a shining example of the courage and commitment demonstrated by the rescue teams and highlights the importance of collective efforts in times of crisis.
