MANDI/MANALI: A Russian tourist, Daniel Barber, lost his life after being buried under an avalanche in the Kothi area near Manali in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The incident occurred while Barber was skiing with his companion, Maxim, and other local skiers.
According to reports, the group was skiing in Kothi when a sudden avalanche struck, engulfing Barber. Although the avalanche was relatively small, snow obstructed his airway, leading to asphyxiation.
Rescue teams, aided by a helicopter, located Barber and transported him to a hospital where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
237 had died during snow disaster in 1979
Manali’s Deputy Superintendent of Police KD Sharma said that the police had taken custody of the body and initiated inquest proceedings. The Russian Embassy had been informed and the body was being held in the mortuary pending further procedures, he said.
Avalanches are a known hazard in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in regions like Lahaul and Spiti. Historical data highlights significant incidents, such as the March 1979 avalanche that claimed approximately 237 lives and disrupted communications.
In March 2024, three labourers from Jharkhand were killed in an avalanche in Kinnaur district. Earlier this month, a British tourist died after a fall during a trek in the Dhauladhar mountain range near Dharamshala.
Himachal prone to natural disasters, says IIT study
A recent study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Ropar revealed that over 45% of Himachal Pradesh is highly susceptible to natural hazards, including avalanches, landslides and floods.
This underscores the importance of heightened safety measures and awareness for tourists and locals engaging in mountainous activities.
Tourism remains a vital part of Himachal Pradesh’s economy. Despite natural disruptions, the state recorded a 6% increase in tourist arrivals in 2023, with numbers rising from 1.51 crore in 2022 to 1.60 crore in 2023. This growth highlights the region’s enduring appeal, even as it faces environmental challenges.
Munish Sood(Mandi)
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