Bangalore, June 22, 2013: The rescue of all pilgrims from Karnataka stranded in different parts of the rain-ravaged regions of Uttarakhand is expected to take nearly a week even as nearly 100 pilgrims from Karnataka were rescued from various areas in that State on Friday. So far, no casualty from Karnataka has been reported.

At least 140 pilgrims have been found stranded in Badrinath and Pandukeshwar. While 120 pilgrims are in Badrinath, 18 pilgrims have been accounted for in Pandukeshwar. Besides, pilgrims have been found scattered at various other places. The State government on Thursday had estimated that about 1,200 of about 67,000 pilgrims stranded in Uttarakhand are from Karnataka.

Among those who returned home were the former Minister and KJP leader Shobha Karandlaje.

“Those stranded in Badrinath are among the 15,000 pilgrims to be airlifted. The priority of the rescue work now is concentrated in the worst affect regions of Uttarkashi, Ram Bada, Gaurikund and other places,” Deputy Inspector-General of Police (Internal Security) Hemanth Nimbalkar, told The Hindu . “It will take some more time, if weather permits, to airlift those stranded in Badrinath and Pandukeshwar since they are relatively safer places,” he added.

Meanwhile, Minister for Infrastructure Santosh Lad met Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna and handed over a cheque for Rs. 5 crore from the State government towards the rescue work.

The State Health Department has also deputed three medical teams along with medicines from Karnataka to assist relief work.

Source: The Hindu