Guwahati: The Indian Army’s Gajraj Corps on January 8 rescued over 20 civilians who were stranded at Sela Top in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district after a vehicle accid ent amid severe weather conditions, officials said.
The incident occurred when a civilian vehicle lost control on an icy stretch and hit a roadside concrete safety barrier following heavy snowfall in the high-altitude area. Several passengers were left stranded in sub-zero temperatures, raising serious safety concerns.
Army personnel promptly deployed manpower and equipment despite poor visibility and extreme cold, reached the spot, and evacuated all stranded civilians to safety. Troops also provided immediate assistance at the site to avert further accidents.
In a parallel effort, Army teams helped other commuters by fitting tyre chains on private and passenger vehicles, enabling safe movement along the snow-laden and slippery road at Sela Top.
The swift action by the Army restored vehicular movement on the route and ensured the safety of travellers during harsh winter conditions. Authorities have urged commuters to exercise caution while crossing high-altitude passes and adhere strictly to advisories issued by local administrations during adverse weather.