Uttarakhand Death Toll nears 1,000

The official death toll in Uttarakhand tragedy, may cross 1,000 today, while the unofficial toll could be in several thousands. The rescue operation continues on a war footing, thanks to the Army and ITBP personnel, who are doing everything possible to rescue the stranded people.

Over 82,000 people have been rescued so far from tragedy-struck areas in Uttarakhand. However, 22,000 are still stranded in many inaccessible areas even after a week of the tragedy. Rains and bad weather have hampered the rescue and relief efforts, but the rescue team has not given up yet.

According to Uttarakhand CM Vijay Bahuguna, who is accused of failing the people during a such a high magnitude tragedy, the rescue and relief work may continue for another fortnight. All pilgrims from Kedarnath, Rambara and Yamunotri have been rescued so far. The rescue operations are going on in Gaurikund, Badrinath, Harshil and Jungle Chatti.

It might take another 2-3 years to rebuild Uttarakhand. The Char Dham Yatra, particularly the Kedarnath won’t resume for the next two years or so.