Chamoli: The Chamoli avalanche has left a profound impact on the workers, with some determined to return to work and others reluctant to face the risks again. The tragedy has highlighted the dangers faced by those working in the Himalayan region, but it has also underscored their resilience and dedication.
Among the 46 workers who were rescued safely, many want to return to the BRO’s Road construction work near the Indo-China border in Chamoli district. After two days of treatment at the Army Hospital in Jyotirmath, many surviving workers have now returned to their homes. Despite the tragic incident, the spirits of the survivors remain high, with many expressing their determination to return to work on Badrinath’s land.
37 workers have been discharged from Jyotirmath army hospital
The avalanche near Mana Camp resulted in the deaths of eight workers, but 46 were rescued and treated at the Army Hospital in Jyotirmath. Following their recovery, the workers have been sent back to their respective homes with assistance from the administration. However, the trauma of the incident has left a lasting impact on some workers, causing mixed reactions about returning to the region.
It is a privilege to work on Lord Badrinath’s land; worker says
Jitesh Kumar from Bihar is among the workers who are eager to return to road construction work at Mana Pass. He has been working in the area for two years and considers it a privilege to work on the land of Badrinath. “It is a privilege to work on Lord Badrinath’s land. Getting a chance to work in the land of Badrinath, what can be a bigger fortune than this,” he said, undeterred by the avalanche.
Higher wages in the Himalayan region compared to lower areas
Kishan Kumar, also from Bihar, acknowledged his family’s concerns but plans to return to work after spending some time with them. He highlighted the higher wages for working in the Himalayan region compared to lower areas and remains committed to his job. Munna Prasad from Bihar recounted his experience during the avalanche. He was in a container at the time and survived without injury. He has been working at Mana Pass for two years and, despite the recent tragedy, plans to return to work after going home.
Some are reluctant to return
Not all workers share the same resolve. Singa Bahadur from Nepal, who narrowly escaped the avalanche by jumping into the snow, expressed his reluctance to return to the area. He plans to work as a laborer in the lower regions instead. Likewise, Ram Sujan from Uttar Pradesh, a foreman in a road construction company, also decided against returning to Mana Pass. He described the area as sensitive and challenging to work in, especially after the heartbreaking avalanche incident.
All the workers are in good health condition
Dr. Ankit Kumar Mishra, a physician at the Army Hospital in Jyotirmath, noted that the workers who survived the avalanche initially had high blood pressure due to the high-altitude conditions. However, their health has normalized after treatment, and no one has any physical problems.
