May 12, 2024: Two Indian American women, identified as Richa Abhay Sonawane and Sonia Ratan, were successfully rescued from the terrains of the Churdhar Valley in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district, reports PTI. The rescue operation, executed by the Indian Army, concluded on Saturday morning.
According to Sirmaur Deputy Commissioner Sumit Khimta, the stranded trekkers were airlifted from Teesri, situated along the Nohradhar-Churdhar trek route. Both individuals have been admitted to a hospital in Chandigarh, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
Joginder Singh, a resident of Nohradhar village, notified local authorities on Friday evening about the predicament of the two women. Sonia Ratan’s health deteriorated during the trek, compelling them to halt their journey at Teesri, approximately 10 km away from Nohradhar.
Responding swiftly to the distress call, a multi-departmental team, comprising personnel from the police, health, and revenue departments, was dispatched to provide immediate medical assistance. Additionally, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were mobilized to augment the rescue efforts.
The Home Ministry and Ministry of External Affairs were promptly informed, leading to the requisition of two Army helicopters for the rescue mission.
The treacherous weather conditions prevailing in the Churdhar valley further complicated the operation.
