2 trekkers from Chandigarh go missing near Churdhar peak in Himachal

Shimla/Sirmaur: Two tourists have gone missing near Churdhar peak, one of Himachal Pradesh’s highest and most challenging mountain ranges.
The peak, located on the border of Shimla and Sirmaur districts, is a popular destination for trekkers and pilgrims, attracting thousands every year.

The incident came to light late Monday night when Dheeraj, a resident of Chandigarh, contacted the emergency helpline 112 to report that two of his friends, identified as Shubham and Prabhjot, had gone missing during a trek to Churdhar temple from the Nauradhar side.

Trekkers inadvertently separate from main group

According to information, the two trekkers inadvertently separated from the group and their mobile phones have gone unreachable since.

Upon receiving the information, a team from the Chopal police station was dispatched to the area.
Local resident Vicky Sharma, who resides near the temple, was also roped in to assist in the search operation alongside Dheeraj. The police post at Nauradhar has been informed to ensure a coordinated effort between both districts.

Search and rescue operations are currently underway, involving police personnel and volunteers, as efforts continue to locate the missing individuals in the dense and mountainous terrain.

Weather, connectivity pose challenges

The Churdhar region is notorious for its unpredictable weather patterns and limited communication infrastructure.
While the trekking trails are generally well-marked, the risk of losing the way increases after sunset. The authorities are urging tourists to avoid trekking late in the day and to always inform local officials before embarking on long routes.

This is not the first such incident in Himachal Pradesh, which has witnessed several trekking-related tragedies in recent years:
• In December 2021, two trekkers were found dead after going missing near Thatharna in Kangra district.
• In January 2022, two youths died and two others were rescued while trekking in the Dhauladhar mountain range.

• In November 2022, a trekker went missing following an avalanche near Friendship Peak in Kullu.
• In March 2023, three youths from Delhi went missing while trekking in Triund without prior registration.
• A US tourist also went missing in November 2022 while hiking near Dharamshala.
• In July 2021, three trekkers were reported missing in Lahaul-Spiti amid heavy rainfall and landslides.

Need for enhanced safety protocols

The repeated incidents have raised serious concerns about trekking safety in Himachal’s high-altitude regions.
Experts and authorities have emphasised the importance of mandatory trek registrations, local guide support and better signage and communication systems on all major trekking routes.

Munish Sood