No new cracks or pits found in Joshimath, confirms Uttarakhand DM

The District Magistrate (DM) of Chamoli, Sandeep Tiwari, has confirmed that there are no new cracks or pits in Joshimath. He assured that the situation is stable and there have been no recent reports of walls collapsing or any other dangerous incidents in the area.

Tiwari addressed a video that had been circulating online, which showed pits and collapsing walls. He clarified that the pits shown in the video are not new but have been there for about two years. After the video raised concerns among the locals, an inspection team consisting of officials from the Municipal Council, District Panchayat, State Government, and engineers visited the site to verify the facts.

"After inspecting the area, the team confirmed that the pits are old. There have been no new cracks or pits recently, and the overall situation remains normal. There have been no reports of damage or any unfortunate events where people live," Tiwari said.

The DM emphasized that authorities are constantly monitoring the situation. "We have been keeping a close watch on the area. The residents of Joshimath have nothing to worry about as the condition is stable," he added.

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Successful rescue operation after avalanche

Tiwari also spoke about the recent avalanche in the Mana area of Chamoli district, which occurred on February 28. The Indian Army, along with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Air Force, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), conducted search and rescue operations immediately after the incident.

The DM confirmed that the last body from the avalanche site was recovered on March 2. He expressed gratitude to all the teams involved for their timely efforts in completing the operation. "I thank the Army, ITBP, Air Force, NDRF, and SDRF for their coordinated and quick action," Tiwari said.

According to the Indian Army, 46 out of the 54 workers from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) were rescued and received medical treatment. Unfortunately, eight workers lost their lives in the avalanche. The legal formalities and panchnama (official documentation) for the deceased have been completed.

The situation in Joshimath remains under control, and officials are continuing to monitor the area to prevent any further issues.