Himachal Pradesh monsoon havoc: 16 devotees dead, thousands rescued in Chamba’s Manimahesh Yatra

NEW DELHI: At least 16 devotees have died during this year’s Manimahesh Yatra in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district, officials said. Deputy commissioner Mukesh Repswal confirmed that seven deaths occurred during the Manimahesh Kailash Parikrama while nine others died at various points along the route. The pilgrimage, which draws thousands to the Manimahesh Dal Lake at the base of Mount Kailash, was disrupted by heavy rains, landslides and damaged roads. This year’s traditional royal bath, normally performed in the glacial lake on Radha Ashtami, was cancelled. Instead, rituals took place in 84 local temples. Authorities were forced to halt the yatra early, leaving nearly 15,000 devotees stranded. Helicopters had been arranged to ferry pilgrims from Sachui to Gaurikund, but flights could not operate due to bad weather. Rescue operations involved the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, medical staff and local volunteers. Thousands of devotees were escorted on foot to safer points before being transported onwards by buses and private vehicles arranged by locals. By Saturday evening, around 50 pilgrims were still stranded on the Harsil track near Gaurikund, though officials said they were being accompanied by relief teams and expected to reach Bharmour safely.

About 4,000 others remained in Bharmour, making their way to Chamba at their own pace. Repswal urged the public not to believe “rumours spread on social media” and to trust only official updates. “Our teams have reached every affected area. The safety and assistance of devotees is our top priority,” he said. Despite the tragedies, officials said the collective efforts of relief workers, the administration and local people ensured the safe return of thousands of pilgrims.