Dehradun: More than 50 devotees had a narrow escape on Sunday as they headed to Gurudwara Shri Reetha Sahib during the ongoing ‘Jod Mela’ in Uttarakhand; however, the vigilant disaster teams averted the tragedy by swiftly mounting a timely operation to rescue all of them.
The incident occurred at the historic Shri Reetha Sahib Gurudwara in Champawat district, where Sikh devotees had arrived in large numbers to participate in the three-day annual fair, held to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev’s historic visit. The fair, on average, draws 2 lakh devotees every year.
Sudden Rise in River Water Triggers Panic
As the group of pilgrims were taking a bath in the Ladhiya river, a sudden rise in water levels left them in a precarious position, putting their lives in peril.
The SDRF team, after receiving information about the mishap, swiftly moved in and saved the lives of over 50 devotees who got stranded due to the sudden surge in the water stream. The sudden gush of water created chaos, and devotees panicked.
According to eyewitnesses, a large number of devotees were bathing at the confluence of the Ladhiya and Ratiya rivers before offering prayers at the Gurudwara Sahib. Heavy rainfall in the region caused the river’s water level to rise suddenly, forcing more than 50 to 60 devotees to scramble for safety.
SDRF, Police Launch Swift Rescue Operation
They clung to a small structure in the middle of the river, and rescue teams pulled them to safety.
Several vehicles also became stuck in the riverbed area due to rising water. The SDRF team took charge and guided the vehicles to safety, demonstrating courage and professional skill.
Local police and traffic police also responded quickly, placing barriers on both sides and restricting movement into the riverbed area to prevent further danger.
Timely Action Prevents Major Tragedy
Through the joint efforts of SDRF, police, and district administration, all stranded individuals were safely rescued, and no loss of life occurred.
SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi said teams were already deployed in advance due to large crowds and weather sensitivity, which helped in the swift response.
He praised the coordinated efforts of all personnel involved in the rescue operation and reiterated SDRF’s commitment to rapid emergency response in such situations.