38 Israelis in India Remain Out of Contact: Monsoon Rains Pose New Challenges for Rescue Efforts
14.07.2023 | 10:41 am
Israel’s ambassador to India, Noor Gilon, has reported today that 38 Israelis in India are still out of touch and their whereabouts are unknown. The announcement came during a meeting held at the Israeli embassy in India this morning, which was attended by representatives from the embassy, Israeli rescue companies Magnus and Magan, and the Department for Israelis Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Israel. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the status of the rescue efforts in light of the impending monsoon rains.
The focus of the discussions was on the Israeli travelers who are currently in the Parvati Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Gilon revealed that a joint operation by the rescue companies and embassy representatives successfully reached all settlements in the valley, including remote areas such as Kiriganga, Pulga, and two delegations on the way to Tosh. However, due to the presence of power lines and the challenging geography, evacuation from the valley can only be done on foot. Those who chose to evacuate were escorted in groups to the safer Kesol area.
While most travelers followed the evacuation plan, 20 Israelis decided to stay in the village of Pulga, and others opted to evacuate independently. The rescue companies have confirmed that there is an adequate supply of water and food in the valley, and they are actively sharing and updating information about the Israelis who are still present there.
In light of the situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the rescue companies have advised against visiting the Parvati Valley or other flood-prone areas in Himachal Pradesh. Travelers in the valley have been urged to avoid being on the roads during the monsoon rains.
Regarding Israelis who requested evacuation from the village of Kaza, an evacuation helicopter was dispatched last night, and three vehicles left the village this morning, transporting travelers to the cities of Shimla and Manali. The rescue companies remain on-site and are prepared to assist as needed. However, due to the damaged infrastructure and limited communication in some villages, the embassy is advising people to refrain from traveling to the area at this time.
The situation remains uncertain for the 38 Israelis who are still out of contact in India. The embassy and rescue companies are working diligently to ensure their safety and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging all Israeli citizens to exercise caution and avoid traveling to disaster-prone areas during the monsoon season.
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