A special team deputed by Punjab government for the evacuation of pilgrims stranded at Gobind Ghat and Gobind Dham due to heavy rains in Uttarakhand has started rescue operations.
The incharge of the team, A S Miglani, said the team was in touch with pilgrims at Gurdwara Sahib in Joshimath.
He said the bridge between the Gobind Ghat and Gobind Dham which had been washed away due to heavy rains has been repaired by the local army and the pilgrims have been brought back safely to Gobind Ghat.
Miglani further said the Punjab Roadways buses could not reach Joshimath as they were stuck near Rishikesh due to landslides and now small buses would be arranged by the state Transport Department to bring back the pilgrims stranded enroute Sri Hemkund Sahib safely.
These buses are expected to reach at Joshimath tomorrow.
The local army has advised pilgrims waiting to pay obeisance at Gurdwara Sri Hemkund Sahib to return to their state till the bridge is fully repaired and becomes operational.
Miglani also said no casualty has been reported so far and things were under control.
The pilgrims were also being provided with medical facilities, if required, and medicines and are being provided food in the gurdwaras at Joshimath and Gobind Ghat, he said.