Machine operator trapped inside as it topples over
The Newz Radar
Mandi: An accident on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway, approximately six miles from the junction between Mandi and Pandoh, on February 20 brought vehicular traffic to a halt.
The accident occured during routine debris removal operations when a sudden cascade of heavy stones struck a machine, trapping the operator inside.
The accident, which occurred around midday, prompted an immediate response from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), KMC Company, district authorities, and law enforcement agencies. A specialized rescue team was dispatched to the scene.
As a precautionary measure, the highway was temporarily closed to traffic, with diversions in place to ensure the safety of commuters. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes, with vehicles rerouted from Mandi to Sundernagar via Kullu and Katola, and from Pandoh to Gohar.
Initial investigations indicate that before the accident, efforts were underway to clear previously fallen debris. However, an unexpected influx of stones and rubble disrupted operations, leading to this accident.
Eyewitnesses recount the courageous but unsuccessful attempt by the machine operator to evade the impending danger before becoming trapped in the debris. Rescue efforts are currently focused on coordinating the deployment of additional machinery to facilitate the safe removal of rubble and the extrication of the trapped operator.
Meanwhile, Mandi Police issued an advisory to the general public declaring that a rescue operation was in progress to locate and rescue the missing operator in the rubble. The SDRF has also been called in. The highway may open for vehicular traffic in about 6-7 hours.
Travelers between Mandi and Kullu have been advised to use the Katindi-Katoula road. Updates are being posted every hour on the Mandi Police Facebook page.
