413 Pilgrims Evacuated by Zipline After Cloudbursts Destroy Bridge in Kinnaur, Himachal

August 6, 2025

Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh: In a dramatic rescue operation, 413 pilgrims were safely evacuated using a zipline after devastating cloudbursts triggered flash floods that destroyed a critical bridge in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday night.

The disaster left the pilgrims stranded in the remote, mountainous region, prompting swift action from local authorities and disaster response teams.

The cloudbursts, which struck late Tuesday, unleashed torrential rains and landslides, washing away the bridge connecting the pilgrimage route near Sangla Valley. With roads blocked and no immediate access to the stranded group, the district administration deployed a zipline as an innovative solution to ferry the pilgrims across the raging Baspa River to safety.

Rescue Team in Operation

“The situation was critical, but the zipline operation was executed with precision,” said Kinnaur Deputy Commissioner Dr. Amit Sharma. “Our teams worked tirelessly through the night to ensure every pilgrim was brought to safety.” The rescue operation, supported by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local volunteers, was completed by Wednesday afternoon, with no casualties reported.

The evacuated pilgrims, many of whom were en route to the sacred Kinnaur Kailash shrine, were provided medical checkups and temporary shelter in nearby relief camps. “We were terrified when the bridge collapsed, but the rescue team was our lifeline,” said Rakesh Kumar, a pilgrim from Punjab.

Widespread Destructions across Region

The cloudbursts have caused widespread damage across Kinnaur, with reports of damaged roads, homes, and infrastructure. The Himachal Pradesh government has announced immediate relief measures, including financial aid for affected families and plans to restore connectivity in the region.

Meteorological officials have warned of continued heavy rainfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh, urging residents and travelers to exercise caution. The state administration has also deployed additional rescue teams and equipment to handle potential emergencies in other vulnerable areas.