• NET Web Desk

Despite the incessant rainfall and inclement weather, the Arunachal Pradesh Government alongwith the Indian Army has pressed its men and machinery in the search and rescue operations of Everester – Tapi Mra and his assistant – Niku Dao. But the relentless downpour has severely hampered the foot-based search operation.

The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of East Kameng – Pravimal Abhishek Polumatla asserted that the foot-based Search and Rescue (SAR) operation, continues to face challenges as persistent rain for the past few days has led to swelling of all rivers including – Kameng, Kania and Wapriyang Bung.

While citing the ‘heavy attrition rate’ among porters due to inclement weather and risky terrain beyond Veo Village; he said even if the troops manage to cross Wapriyang Bung, it is extremely difficult to maintain supply chains or evacuate them in case of emergency.

“As the water level is dangerously increasing in Wapriyang Bung, foot-based SAR operation is called-off with immediate effect,” – informed the DC.

The DC further added that the strategy is focused entirely on Plan-A; i.e., to conduct a helicopter-based SAR operation. “All preparations are in place for an effective and swift operation,” – he added.

Its worthy to note that Tapi Mra – the first mountaineer from Arunachal Pradesh to conquer Mount Everest; has been reportedly missing with a porter – Niku Dao, while on an official mission to explore the snow-capped Mount Kyari Satam, one of the highest peaks in the frontier state.

Mra, also the Secretary General of Mountaineering Association of Arunachal Pradesh; had climbed the world’s highest peak on May 21, 2009. While, this was Mra’s fourth attempt to scale Kyarisatam.

According to reports, two ALH and two Cheetah helicopters have been deployed for aerial reconnaissance of the location.

Besides, the Indian Army’s highly-trained and motivated Special Forces and Arunachal’s Scout Teams are also being deployed for initiating ground operations in the challenging terrain. In order to expedite the search & rescue operation, a 34-member infantry unit (31 Army personnel and three local mountaineers) have also been deployed in Veo village.

Consequently, it became necessary to divide the 34-person squad into two parts (Groups A and B). Group A has 18 members, whereas Group B has 16 members.