Leh: In a remarkable display of courage and swift action, a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) jawan from 111 RCC rescued two civilians trapped in a massive land and mudslide on the treacherous Khalsar–Agham–Shyok Road on July 6.
The Khalsar–Agham–Shyok stretch, a vital axis connecting Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso, is known for its challenging terrain and four major Nallah crossings that often experience high water discharge, leading to frequent road closures during the summer months. The road plays a crucial role not only in strategic mobility but also in ensuring civilian access and tourism in the Ladakh region.
n the afternoon of July 6, around 1600 hrs, while maintenance work was underway at Nallah 2 (Km 59.40), a sudden and massive land-cum-mudslide struck the area. The slide covered nearly 500 meters of the road with heavy mud, boulders, and debris.
Amidst the chaos, a vehicle carrying two tourists—Navritu Singh and Sabal Gupta—became trapped as a surge of water flooded the Nallah. The situation rapidly turned life-threatening as the vehicle was caught in the debris flow with no safe way out.
Without hesitation, Sapper Kailash of 111 RCC, who was operating a dozer nearby to divert water channels, noticed the vehicle in distress. Braving the ongoing mudslide and ignoring personal safety, he rushed to the spot, reached the stranded car, and pulled both individuals out—one by one—through the unstable terrain. Despite sustaining minor injuries, Kailash safely moved the tourists to a secure location and ensured they were promptly taken to the nearest Field Hospital at Partapur for medical attention.
The courageous and timely intervention by Sapper Kailash averted what could have been a tragic disaster. His selfless act exemplifies the highest traditions of the Border Roads Organisation, which continues to stand by its motto: “We Create, We Connect, We Care.”
Teams from 111 RCC / 753 BRTF / Project HIMANK remain actively engaged in keeping the route open, carrying out regular clearance and diversion works to ensure safe passage for both military and civilian traffic in the region.
