After surviving the devastating avalanche in Mana, Chamoli district, the rescued workers now face a daunting challenge — returning home. With all their belongings, money, and documents buried under snow, the workers are left with no means to travel. While the construction company has arranged transport for them up to Haridwar, the onward journey remains uncertain.
Forty-four workers, most of whom were engaged in road construction work, were admitted to a military hospital after the avalanche struck on February 29. Among them, two severely injured workers are still receiving treatment at AIIMS Rishikesh. On Tuesday, 36 workers were discharged and sent to Haridwar. However, with no belongings or money, they are deeply concerned about how to reach their hometowns.
Workers’ Voices: No Money, Only Worries
Jayendra Prasad, a worker from Bihar, expressed his despair, saying,
“We have nothing left. Only the clothes we are wearing. All our money and documents are buried under the snow. We survived this disaster, and we hope a way forward will emerge.”
Similarly, Jitesh Kumar, another worker, added,
“The company has arranged our travel to Haridwar, but from there, we are on our own. We hope they extend further assistance, or we’ll find some way to reach home.”
Also Read This – Uttarakhand Government Recognizes Polytechnic Diploma as Equivalent to Class 12
Appeal for Support and Assurances
Manu Sharma, the construction company’s manager, stated that the company would ensure the workers reach Haridwar and that further assistance would be provided as needed. Additionally, Chamoli’s Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Chandra Shekhar Vashisht assured that the administration would monitor the situation closely and ensure the workers face no additional hardships.
The aftermath of the avalanche has left the workers in a dire situation. Now, the focus remains on how quickly the administration and the company can coordinate to ensure their safe return home.
