A religious pilgrimage in the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh turned tragic after sudden weather changes claimed the lives of two women pilgrims. A large number of devotees had gathered to undertake the circumambulation of the sacred Drilburi hill located in the Lahaul Valley, but heavy snowfall unexpectedly began on Thursday morning, trapping the participants in severe conditions.
The abrupt blizzard resulted in the deaths of two women participants. Additionally, five to six other devotees, including elderly individuals and young children, suffered injuries due to slipping on the ice, high altitude sickness, and hypothermia during the religious trek. The injured individuals were promptly rushed to the Keylong hospital, where medical teams are currently providing them with necessary treatment.
Medical authorities confirm casualties and ongoing hospital care
Dr. Sushma, a senior physician at the regional hospital, confirmed the deaths of the two women pilgrims during the Drilburi circumambulation and stated that their bodies have been brought in for post-mortem examinations. She noted that the exact causes of death will become clearer once the autopsy reports are officially finalized and reviewed.
Following the incident, rescue efforts shifted the injured victims to the Keylong regional hospital for urgent medical attention. Doctors are closely monitoring their recovery as they receive care for the injuries sustained on the mountain.
Massive gathering of devotees and widespread snowfall across the valley
According to Dr. Sushma, several returning pilgrims arrived at the hospital suffering from injuries and altitude-related health complications brought on by the severe weather. Many of the patients showed classic symptoms of high altitude sickness, while others sustained physical injuries from slipping on the icy tracks. Reports indicate that thousands of devotees had set out to participate in the sacred circumambulation.
Significantly, Thursday marked widespread snowfall across high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh, including Lahaul-Spiti. Fresh snow was recorded at Baralacha, Shinku La, and Rohtang within the Lahaul Valley, while the upper peaks of Manali also received a blanket of snow, signaling the sharp onset of winter conditions across the region.
